Think back to your school days. Who was the teacher who made gym class fun? The one who taught you more than just games—who taught you about teamwork and cheered you on? That’s the power of a great PE teacher.
This job is about helping kids stay healthy, feel good about themselves, and enjoy being active. If you want to become a PE teacher, this guide is for you. We’ll cover the steps you need to take, talk about pay, and look at other ways to work in this field.
How to Become a PE Teacher? Step-by-Step
Becoming a certified PE teacher has clear steps. Here’s the simple breakdown:
1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree.
You need a four-year college degree. Look for programs in Physical Education, Kinesiology, or Exercise Science. Make sure the program is accredited and prepares you to be a teacher.
2. Finish a Student Teaching Internship
As part of your degree, you’ll work in a real school classroom. A experienced teacher will guide you as you practice writing lessons and teaching students. This is your chance to learn by doing.
3. Pass Your Certification Tests
After you graduate, you have to pass tests to show you know your stuff. Most states use a test called the Praxis II. Check what your specific state requires.
4. Get Your State Teaching License
Apply for your official license through your state’s Board of Education. This step includes a background check. You need this license to teach in public schools.
Start Applying for Jobs!
Now you can look for PE teacher jobs. Get your resume ready and practice for interviews. Many schools will ask you to teach a sample lesson plans, so be prepared to get active!
What Does a PE Teacher Actually Do?
A PE teacher does much more than just play games. Their main jobs include:
Planning lessons that meet educational standards.
Teaching students about health, nutrition, and how to stay fit.
Grading students on effort and knowledge, not just athletic skill.
Making sure the gym and playground are safe for everyone.
Managing sports equipment.
Coaching after-school sports teams.
How Much Do PE Teachers Make?
Money is an important factor. According to national data, the average PE teacher makes about $62,000 a year. Your actual pay will depend on:
Where you work: Some states and cities pay more than others.
Your experience: You’ll earn more as you gain years on the job.
Your school district: Some districts have higher salaries than others.
The job demand is steady. Schools will always need qualified teachers to help students stay healthy.
What College Courses Should You Take?
Your college major is important, but the classes you choose matter too. Here are the best courses to take to become a great PE teacher:
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Exercise Science
Nutrition
Classes on teaching students with disabilities
The Multifaceted Role & Responsibilities of a PE Teacher
Your job description goes far beyond supervising sports. As a modern PE teacher, your core duties are diverse:
Designing Inclusive Curriculum: You’ll create lesson plans for diverse age groups and skill levels, ensuring every student, from the budding athlete to the hesitant participant, can succeed and enjoy physical activity.
Holistic Health Education: You are a teacher of health and nutrition, integrating lessons on active lifestyle habits, mental wellness, and smart nutritional choices into your classes.
Fostering Soft Skills: PE class is a prime environment for promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, and student engagement in a hands-on way.
Assessment and Feedback: You’ll continually assess student performance and progress, not just on athletic skill but on effort, improvement, and understanding of health concepts.
Safeguarding Students: Your top priority is creating a safe, supportive, and positive learning environment, both emotionally and physically, where students feel comfortable taking healthy risks.
The Realities of the Job: Challenges & Rewards
It’s important to enter this field with clear eyes.
Challenges You May Face:
Managing large class sizes with wide-ranging abilities.
Addressing the needs of students with disabilities or health issues.
Juggling teaching duties with administrative tasks.
The constant task of keeping all students motivated and engaged.
The Profound Rewards:
The joy of making a positive impact on students’ long-term health.
Watching students grow physically and gain personal confidence.
Instilling timeless values of teamwork, discipline, and leadership.
Becoming a health advocate in your school and community.
Can You Be a PE Teacher Without a Degree?
To be a certified public school teacher, you must have a bachelor’s degree. There is no way around this rule in any state.
Other Ways to Work with Kids in Fitness:
If you don’t have a degree yet, you can still work in this world. Think about these jobs:
Teacher’s Aide in a PE class
Substitute Teacher
Coach at a community center (like the YMCA) or a sports league
These jobs are a great start, but getting a degree is still the best way to become a full-fledged teacher.
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Frequently Asked Questions on how to become a physical education teacher
How many years does it take?
It usually takes 4 years for the degree, plus a little more time for tests and licensing. Plan for about 4-5 years total.
What makes a good PE teacher?
You need to be a good leader, communicator, and be patient and enthusiastic. You also need to love working with kids.
Is a gym teacher the same as a PE teacher?
Yes! The names mean the same thing. “PE teacher” is the more modern term.
Start Your Journey Today!
The path is clear: get your degree, get your license, and start teaching. It’s a rewarding career for anyone who wants to help the next generation live healthier, happier lives. Your first step is to look for colleges with great PE programs!