Understanding the Role of a PE Leader in Primary Schools
In many primary schools, the PE Leader or PE Coordinator role can be assigned to any member of staff, regardless of their own experiences with PE and sport. Whether you're a newly qualified teacher (NQT/ECT) or have several years of experience under your belt, stepping into this position can be both exciting and overwhelming. This blog examines the evolving roles and responsibilities of a PE Lead in a subject leadership role, providing practical guidance for navigating the year ahead.
What Is a PE Coordinator?
The PE coordinator job description typically includes overseeing the planning, delivery, and assessment of physical education throughout the school. In 2025, with increased emphasis on physical activity, well-being, and the impact of the Primary PE and Sport Premium, the role has expanded. A PE lead must now demonstrate strategic leadership, budget management, staff training, and curriculum development, all while promoting a positive sporting culture in school.
Key PE Leader Responsibilities
1. Training and CPD Coordination
An essential part of the subject leader responsibilities is ensuring that all staff feel confident and competent delivering PE. Whether it's organising teacher CPD workshops internally or signposting staff to external providers, the PE leader must foster a culture of continuous development.
Many schools now encourage PE coordinators to undertake formal qualifications such as the Level 5/6 Certificate in Primary School Physical Education Specialism, a recognised route to upskilling and supporting staff across the school. (include link)
2. Curriculum Development
Interpreting the National Curriculum and designing an inclusive, progressive PE programme is one of the most important primary coordinator responsibilities. The roles of a PE teacher have shifted towards supporting holistic development, with Ofsted now expecting subject leaders to evidence curriculum intent, implementation, and impact.
Your role includes:
- Choosing a high-quality scheme of work that aligns with your school's vision
- Ensuring coverage across activity areas (e.g. gymnastics, dance, athletics, games)
- Monitoring progression across year groups
3. Organisational Management
Effective PE coordinators are also expert organisers. Their responsibilities may include:
- Timetabling hall and playground space
- Coordinating intra- and inter-school competitions
- Managing relationships with external sports coaches
- Ensuring appropriate risk assessments are in place (including off-site visits)
Refer to the AfPE Safe Practice in PE, School Sport and Physical Activity handbook for the latest guidance on health and safety compliance when teaching PE in your school.
4. Budget Oversight and Sports Premium Reporting
With schools in England continuing to receive the Primary PE and Sport Premium (currently £16,000 + £10 per pupil), PE leads must be confident in financial planning. The subject leader roles and responsibilities include:
- Auditing and evaluating the current provision on where the money could be spent
- Planning strategic spending to maximise the effectiveness of any money spent
- Publishing an annual impact report on the school website on how effective the money spent is against the Key Indicators
It is essential to clearly demonstrate how your expenditure contributes to sustainable improvements in PE, sport, and physical activity.
5. Supporting New and Experienced Staff
Another key aspect of the responsibilities of a PE teacher in a leadership role is mentoring others, especially new teachers. Whether it's through modelling good practice, leading demonstration lessons, or organising staff drop-in observations, you're not just overseeing a subject; you’re developing staff confidence in delivering PE.
Consider setting up:
- Regular PE briefings in staff meetings
- Shared online folders for planning and assessment
- Peer-observation opportunities
Being a PE coordinator is more than just managing equipment and timetables. It's about leading a vision for high-quality physical education that has a lasting impact. With the right support, resources, and ongoing training, the roles and responsibilities of a PE teacher in leadership can be deeply rewarding.
If you're looking to strengthen your school's provision, explore our ready-made lesson plans and professional development content at The PE Hub. Utilising a well-structured platform like The PE Hub can significantly support your teaching staff in delivering PE in your school.