Teacher Assistant – Physical Health Education
Position Overview
- Title: Teacher Assistant – Physical Health Education
- Category: Teacher Assistance (cf Policy 5.101)
- Reports to: Vice Principal
- Department: Secondary School
- Job Holder Start Date: 1 August 2025
IST Foundational Documents
IST Mission
Challenge, support, and inspire all learners to become accountable citizens who find their own paths and thrive in a dynamic world.
IST Vision
IST is a pioneering International Baccalaureate Continuum school that ignites a life-long passion for learning. We are a diverse and vibrant community that values student agency and cultivates local and global partnerships, in an open and adaptive learning environment. IST fosters exploration, collaboration, and authentic experiences that develop resilient and compassionate individuals.
Core Values
- Respect
- Service
- Well-being
- Belonging
- Growth
Mission Impacts
- An accountable citizen recognizes their impact and responsibility to their communities. They are equipped with knowledge, empathy, and ethical commitment. They embody the school’s values and contribute positively to society.
- Learners will collaborate with mentors and are empowered to explore diverse opportunities that extend and enrich the curriculum.
- Learners are self-driven, curious, and confident. They are creative and imaginative thinkers who can develop solutions, seize opportunities, and adapt in the face of adversity.
Strategies
In order to support our mission, vision, and values, IST will:
- Strategy 1 – Leveraging Community: Leverage the IST community and local and global partners.
- Strategy 2 – Professional Growth: Attract, develop, and retain exceptional professionals who embody IST’s mission, vision, and values.
- Strategy 3 – Innovation & Learning: Explore, create, and implement innovations in the educational ecosystem in support of learner agency, academic rigor, and the pursuit of excellence.
- Strategy 4 – Future Focus: Implement transformative approaches to resource management focused on environmental responsibility and efficiency, financial viability, and institutional continuity.
Summary of the Role
Teacher Assistant provides support to a lead teacher in charge of a classroom. The Physical Education (PHE) Teacher Assistant provides instructional support to PHE teachers, with a specific focus on swimming instruction. The ideal candidate will be a trained Physical Education teacher with the ability to confidently teach swimming and actively contribute to non-swimming PHE classes through co-teaching and lesson support. This role involves working closely with PHE teachers during swimming units, reinforcing lessons with individuals or small groups, supporting lesson planning and preparation, and documenting student progress. Flexibility, collaboration, and a willingness to engage across all areas of the PHE curriculum are essential.
Preferred Qualifications and Experience
- At least 4 years of experience teaching or assisting in Physical Education, including swim instruction.
- Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Sports Science, or a related field.
- Demonstrated ability and confidence in co-teaching across a range of PHE activities, not limited to swimming; IB Middle Year Program/Diploma Program training/experience is desirable.
- Recognized swimming instruction certification (e.g., ASA, Red Cross, or equivalent) with a valid First Aid and CPR certification (with water safety emphasis) is preferred.
Professional Competencies
- Instructional Support: Ability to effectively support lead teachers by reinforcing lesson objectives, adapting activities to student needs, and managing small group or individual instruction.
- Swimming Instruction: Skilled in delivering structured, safe, and engaging swim lessons to students of varying abilities.
- Co-Teaching and Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with PHE teachers in both swimming and non-swimming classes, contributing meaningfully to planning, delivery, and assessment.
- Classroom and Pool Management: Confident in maintaining a positive, inclusive, and safe environment in both classroom and aquatic settings.
- Student Engagement: Uses a variety of strategies to motivate students, foster participation, and encourage personal growth through physical activity.
- Adaptability and Initiative: Flexible and proactive in responding to diverse classroom dynamics, changing schedules, and varying student needs.
- Record Keeping and Observation: Competent in documenting student progress, providing feedback, and assisting with assessment under the direction of the lead teacher.
- Communication: Clear and professional communication with students, colleagues, and parents, where appropriate.
Personal Attributes
- Integrity and Confidentiality: Demonstrates professionalism and sound judgment, maintaining high ethical standards and respecting the privacy of students, staff, and families adhering to IST Code of Conduct.
- Committed to Growth and Development: Shows a strong desire to enhance their skills by embracing new responsibilities, seeking feedback, and engaging in professional learning opportunities.
- Collaborative Team Player and Empathetic Listener: Works effectively and respectfully with colleagues, students, and the wider school community; actively listens to others and contributes to a positive team dynamic.
- Flexible, Creative, and Adaptable: Responds positively to change and challenges; able to think creatively when supporting students with diverse learning needs or navigating dynamic teaching environments.
- Student- and Community-Focused: Deeply committed to the well-being and success of all students, while also contributing meaningfully to the broader mission and values of the school.
Responsibilities
The Physical Education (PHE) Teacher Assistant plays a vital role in supporting student learning, particularly in swimming and general PHE classes, while contributing to the wider school environment.
Primary Areas of Responsibility
Under the direction of the lead teacher, the PHE Teacher Assistant will:
- Collaborate with the PHE team to deliver engaging, safe, and inclusive physical education lessons, with a special focus on swimming instruction.
- Support teachers in both swimming and non-swimming PHE classes, supporting the learning needs of students.
- Monitor class schedules and assist with transitions and organization.
- Prepare and set up materials and equipment for lessons and activities.
- Support students by reinforcing lesson content in small groups or through one-on-one assistance.
- Ensure the physical and emotional safety of students in classrooms, swimming areas, and during transitions.
- Supervise students during non-instructional times such as breaks, lunch, or off-campus excursions.
- Support the lead teacher in identifying student needs, documenting progress, and communicating concerns appropriately.
- Contribute to lesson planning and reflection with the lead teacher.
- Maintain a clean and organized learning environment.
- Adhere to school and government regulations, and promote positive behavior through established classroom agreements.
- Participate in all required professional development sessions and staff meetings.
- Serve as an Advisor in Extended Homeroom classes, if required.
Additional Responsibilities (at the discretion of the Secondary Vice Principal)
- Attend staff meetings, student-led conferences, and parent evenings as scheduled.
- Supervise students punctually and responsibly during break times and after school.
- Take on special projects or tasks as requested by the Secondary Leadership Team.
Classroom Teacher Responsibilities to Support the TA Role
To ensure an effective partnership, classroom teachers are expected to:
- Meet with the Teacher Assistant at the start of the school year to clarify expectations, responsibilities, and goals.
- Communicate openly, respectfully, and regularly with the Teacher Assistant.
- Encourage a culture of mutual respect and collaboration between the Teacher Assistant and all members of the school community.
- Hold regular planning and reflection meetings with the Teacher Assistant to review progress, share feedback, and co-develop learning experiences.
Perform other duties as assigned, including special projects as requested by the Vice Principal.
Particulars of the Search
Prospective applicants should be based in Tanzania and need to apply formally. They should submit a letter (in English) describing their fit and interest in the position and an up-to-date curriculum vitae/resume, including the names, addresses, and contact details of three (3) referees. Applications and enquiries should be directed to [email protected] before the close of business on Thursday, 26 June, 2025.
