Dan Knowles

I am a dedicated and hardworking teacher who places inclusion at the heart of my practice, ensuring all students, regardless of background or ability, have access to high-quality learning. I have experience teaching children from diverse backgrounds, including a high proportion of English language learners, showcasing my ability to create engaging and supportive learning environments. With a strong background in fitness and PE, I also promote active, healthy lifestyles and incorporate physical learning strategies into my teaching.

PE Teacher, Grade 1 - 9 at The Chinese School, Dubai (2024-01 – Present)

• Use clear demonstrations, instructional videos, and visual aids to overcome language barriers.
• Learn key Chinese phrases related to PE and encourage bilingual students to support their peers.
• Rely on gestures, body language, and whistle signals to effectively manage the class.
• Adapt assessments by using practical demonstrations instead of written tests where possible.
• Emphasise safety protocols with pictures and step-by-step demonstrations.
• Use universally understood games and activities to make lessons enjoyable and engaging.

Group Training Coach at F45 Training, UAE (2022-10 – 2023-09)

• Provide personalised coaching and continuous motivation to help members achieve their fitness goals in a dynamic environment.
• Lead engaging, high-intensity group workouts that combine strength, cardio and functional training to maximise overall fitness.
• Cultivate a supportive atmosphere in which members feel encouraged to push their limits and celebrate progress.
• Monitor member performance throughout sessions and adjust exercises as needed to maintain optimal intensity and ensure safety.
• Demonstrate proper techniques and provide real-time feedback to ensure effective workouts and reduce the risk of injury.

PE Teacher, KS1 - KS4 at Ministry of Education, UAE (2017-09 – 2022-08)

• Implement the new Ministry of Education curriculum, which is adapted from the British curriculum, by designing engaging lessons that incorporate current best practices in education.
• Collaborate closely with the Curriculum Development Team to refine instructional materials and ensure the seamless integration of the curriculum across all subjects.
• Adapt teaching methodologies to cater to the diverse needs of the classroom, including many Arabic-speaking English Language Learners (ELL) and pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN), ensuring that lessons are accessible and inclusive. Utilise interactive and student-centred approaches to promote active learning and support academic progress in a culturally diverse environment.
• Integrate elements of both British and local educational standards to foster a well-rounded learning experience that prepares students for future academic success.

PGCE in Physical Education – University of Sunderland (2018-09 – 2019-06)

BA (Hons) in Sports Studies – University of Central Lancashire (2016-09 – 2017-06)

FdA in Sports Coaching – University of Central Lancashire (2014-09 – 2016-06)

A-Levels in Physical Education, Sociology – St John's Rigby 6th Form College (2008-09 – 2010-06)