Meet the Team: Mark Lacey - Graduate to Physical Education Tutor

Meet the Team is a blog series at Portobello Institute where we introduce our tutors by exploring their educational and professional backgrounds.

Today, we shine a light on Mark Lacey, Tutor in Physical Education and Coaching. Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, Mark is a Sports Coordinator, PE Teacher, and Tutor who is passionate about promoting physical activity within Dublin’s south inner city.

Education

What degrees have you earned, and from which institutions?
I hold a BA (Hons) in Physical Education from Portobello Institute, along with a range of coaching and fitness qualifications that have supported my work in schools and community sport. I also hold a degree in CBT.

Why did you choose this education pathway?
I’ve always had a strong passion for sport and working with young people. Studying physical education allowed me to bring those two interests together and gain a deeper understanding of how to support children’s physical and mental wellbeing through movement and participation.

Why did you decide to study to the level you have, and how was your experience?
After years of hands-on experience in sport and coaching, I wanted to formalise my knowledge and open up new opportunities in education. My time at Portobello was excellent - it challenged me academically while giving me the confidence and motivation to keep learning and improving.

What do you feel you have gained from your studies?
My studies have given me a deeper understanding of how young people learn, how motivation works, and how to make PE more inclusive and engaging. I’ve also developed valuable leadership, communication, and reflective skills that have enhanced my professional practice.

Career

What is your current role or roles?
I am a Sports Coordinator, PE Teacher, and Tutor, working across schools and communities to promote physical activity within the south inner city of Dublin.

How did your career start, and how has it progressed?
My career began over 25 years ago, coaching and mentoring children in schools and sports clubs. Over time, I’ve built strong links between schools and local communities, helping to create sustainable programs that encourage young people to stay active. My work now focuses on both education and community development, supporting students, teachers, and coaches across our community.

Has education been a catalyst for your career, and if so, how?
Definitely. My education has given me the theoretical foundation to complement my practical experience. It has also allowed me to progress into teaching and tutoring roles, where I can share my knowledge and help shape future professionals in physical education.

Day-to-Day as a PE Tutor and Coordinator

Can you outline what a normal workday looks like for you?
No two days are the same. I could be coordinating school PE programs, teaching classes, running fitness or coaching sessions, mentoring students, or meeting with teachers and local clubs to develop new initiatives. The variety keeps the job interesting and rewarding.

What are the most important skills you use in your roles?
Strong communication, leadership, adaptability, and empathy. Working with young people requires patience and creativity, while managing programs demands good organisation and teamwork.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
Seeing the positive impact physical activity has on children and young people - not just physically, but also in their confidence, focus, and overall wellbeing. Helping someone find joy in movement is incredibly fulfilling, especially when you see the smiles it brings.

What are your goals for your future career and education?
I aim to continue developing as an educator and mentor, building on my experience in schools and higher education. I also want to contribute to projects that improve access to quality PE and community sport, particularly in disadvantaged areas.

Your Role at Portobello Institute

How is your role as a tutor at Portobello Institute going?
I’m delighted to be part of the Portobello Institute team. I teach modules related to physical education, sport, and child development - areas I’m genuinely passionate about. I look forward to guiding students on their journey to becoming confident, capable educators and helping them make PE more enjoyable for children through my approach to teaching.

Why did you decide to get into tutoring?
After many years working directly with children and in community sport, I wanted to inspire and support the next generation of teachers. Tutoring allows me to share my experience from the past 25 years and help others make a real difference through physical education.

What is the best thing about being a tutor in your area of expertise?
Watching students connect classroom theory with real-world practice - seeing that moment when it all clicks, and they realise the impact they can have. It’s incredibly rewarding to help them grow into confident professionals who can make a real difference in a child’s life.

Mark Lacey’s Philosophy

My focus is on modernising PE - making it more exciting, inclusive, and relevant for children today.

I believe PE should go beyond traditional sports to include a wide range of activities that build confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong love of movement.

Sport and physical education have the power to transform lives, and my goal is to keep inspiring that change in schools and communities.

If you’d like to learn more about our specialised physical education and coaching programmes visit our faculty here.