Children and teens learn about healthy living habits through physical education teachers. Physical education teachers must be active and able to explain health concepts in a variety of age groups to their students. This guide provides additional information about the job of a physical education teacher, as well as how to apply for it.
Description of a job as a Physical Education Teacher
Physical education (PE), or physical education teacher, is a person who teaches students about health, nutrition, and sports. PE teachers have a deep understanding of health and sports. Teachers in physical education teach students how to play different sports and how exercise benefits muscles and overall health. PE teachers can also help students make exercise more enjoyable by planning activities.
Physical Education Teacher Requirements.
Teachers in physical education need to be active and fit as they often lead activities and classes throughout the school day. They are responsible for teaching young students the basics of exercise and sports, as well as monitoring older students’ activities. They organize and manage curriculum and equipment maintenance. PE teachers need to be knowledgeable about nutrition and sports for all levels. It is an advantage to have a solid background in sport and good communication skills. Most physical education teachers are certified. Others may hold a master’s in physical education. Many PE teachers may coach school teams or be faculty advisors to student clubs.
How to become a teacher of physical education
A bachelor’s degree is required to become a physical education teacher. You can get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Science Education (BSEd) to prepare you for this job. These degrees include a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Science, Kinesiology, and Physical Education. These courses include theories in physical education, theories in sports pedagogy, team and individual sports, basic methods of teaching, and human development. The state board must approve any teacher preparation program. This will ensure that the teacher is eligible to teach in the state they are from, regardless of their PE major. This is the most common path to teaching physical education:
- Earn a bachelor’s in physical and/or closely related subjects, such as health education or Kinesiology.
- You will need to complete a student teaching placement in a setting that teaches physical education.
- You must take the state-required tests to be eligible for endorsement in physical Education.
- Apply for a teaching license
- Apply for PE teacher openings.
Teachers of public school physical ed must be certified as state teachers for the grades they are teaching. A four-year bachelor’s degree in physical education with an emphasis will be sufficient to qualify for state certification. Some states offer other certification options, such as a master’s level in physical teaching. Physical education teachers have several options for certification. These categories are determined by the grade they are to teach (early child, elementary, secondary or K-12). Special needs teachers can also become certified in physical education to teach students with disabilities using adaptive methods of teaching.
Salary and job outlook for Physical Education Teachers
The salary of PE teachers is typically comparable to other teachers. It varies according to the school’s grade, location, teacher’s education, and teacher’s experience. Expect positive job growth in teachers, with a projected growth rate of 3-4% from 2028. Teachers who have exceptional knowledge and skills in physical education are highly sought after.
Expertise and experience are a plus
An aspiring teacher of physical education should have a strong foundation in the areas of personal fitness, team sports experience, and interpersonal and communications skills. New physical education teachers can find work if they have a good understanding of nutrition, team dynamics, and kinesiology. Physical education teachers have two goals: to promote good health and teaching students how to eat well. PE teachers that are well-respected and fit should also be role models to their students. Their students are encouraged to lead active, healthy lives by physical education teachers.
Extra Sources
- Shape America: National professional organization for physical and health educators at all grades. Shape America is a national professional organization that publishes guidelines and standards in physical education. It also offers workshops and other continuing learning opportunities.
- National Association for Sport and Physical Education (Non-Profit Organization of Trainers, Coaches, and Researchers) that promotes high-quality physical education, sports, and activity programs.
