Anthony Sheriff

Anthony Sheriff is the Programme Lead for Portobello Institute’s BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching & Physical Education and Graduate Diploma in Applied Physical Education Studies. He has 11 years of experience across education and sport, including teaching physical education in the UK and Dubai.

Industry Experience & Career

• 11 years of experience across physical education (PE) and sport
• Holds a BA (Hons) Education Studies and Physical Education, a PGCE Primary Education with PE Specialism, and an MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology
• Has worked with top-level athletes through sport psychology
• Has taught physical education in both the UK and Dubai
• Combines a teaching background with specialist knowledge in sport and exercise psychology

Anthony’s Pathway in Physical Education and Sport

Anthony took what he describes as a slightly different route into education. Rather than moving directly from school into college with a career already mapped out, he worked in a variety of jobs and spent time travelling.

It was while living and working in Australia that he began thinking more seriously about his future and where his long-standing interest in sport could take him.

“Sport had always been a huge part of my life, so moving into physical education felt like a natural direction once I gave myself the chance to explore it properly,” he recalls.

Studying for his degree at Liverpool John Moores University proved to be a turning point, helping Anthony gain confidence in the path he had chosen.

“Once I started my degree, everything became much clearer,” Anthony reflects. “It wasn’t just about getting a qualification. The support from lecturers, the practical elements of the course, and the confidence I built along the way made a huge difference.”

From there, Anthony completed a PGCE Primary Education with PE Specialism, qualifying as a teacher in England. In Ireland, the comparable postgraduate teacher education route is the Professional Master of Education (PME). He later completed an MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology.

“I have worked as a teacher, studied sport psychology, and supported athletes,” Anthony adds. “Now as Programme Lead, I can bring all of those experiences together to support students on their own journey.”

Teaching & Guiding Students

Anthony’s teaching style is practical, discussion-led, and career-focused. He aims to create an environment where students are actively involved, encouraged to contribute, and prepared for the realities of their future careers.

“I consistently link theory to practice – whether it’s lesson planning, coaching, or psychological concepts,” Anthony explains. “There is little value in learning something if students cannot see how it applies in real situations.”

Anthony’s own experience of finding his direction over time also influences how he works with students.

“I aim to meet students where they are,” he notes. “Everyone comes from different backgrounds, with different levels of experience and confidence.”

Career Opportunities in Sport & Physical Education

One of the strengths of studying sport and physical education, Anthony believes, is the range of career directions it can open up.

“Students often come in thinking it’s just about becoming a PE teacher, but it’s much broader than that,” he points out.

PE teaching remains a popular progression route, with graduates able to explore further teacher education, subject to the entry and Teaching Council requirements of the relevant programme.

Students can also explore opportunities across coaching, fitness, sport and community development, health promotion, and further study.

Anthony highlights communication and adaptability as particularly important skills, alongside a willingness to reflect on practice and keep learning.

Student Impact

Some of the most meaningful changes Anthony sees in students happen gradually: an individual who starts out unsure of themselves begins contributing more and recognising what they are capable of.

“Confidence is probably the biggest challenge, especially at the beginning,” he says. “Some students are unsure of themselves or whether they are on the right path.”

As Programme Lead, Anthony focuses on helping students recognise their strengths early and become more active participants in their learning.

“We have had a number of students who started out unsure of their direction and went on to really positive outcomes – whether that is teaching, further study, or working within their community,” he shares.

“One example that stands out is a student who came in lacking confidence but fully committed to the process. Over time, they developed into a confident and capable practitioner, and are now working in a role they genuinely enjoy.”

Advice for Future Students

Anthony’s advice is not to feel pressured to have everything figured out straight away.

He says: “If you have an interest in sport, enjoy working with people, and want to make a positive impact, that is a strong starting point. The rest develops through experience and education.

“There is no single path into this profession. My own journey was not straightforward, and many of our students have similar experiences.”

Why Portobello Institute

Anthony was drawn to Portobello Institute by its student-centred approach and the opportunity to work closely with students.

“The experience is very personal,” he says. “Students are not just another number.”

He values the emphasis on smaller class groups, practical learning, and preparing students for real career outcomes rather than simply completing a qualification.

Anthony concludes: “Ultimately, this is a career where you can have a meaningful impact on individuals and communities, helping to promote lifelong health, wellbeing, and confidence through physical activity.”

Explore Sports at Portobello Institute

Thinking about a future in sport and physical education? Explore Portobello Institute’s sports programmes and learn from experienced educators like Anthony Sheriff.