Head of Early Years Practise

As the Head of Early Years Practice, you will play a pivotal role in guiding and supporting Their nursery team to deliver exceptional care and education. You will ensure that our clients nurseries provide a nurturing and inspiring environment for children and families, aligned with our clients vision and values. This role is ideal for a seasoned early years professional with strong leadership experience, eager to take the next exciting step in their career. You’ll thrive in our clients flexible, friendly, and creative work environment, where your expertise will be valued and your professional development supported., Delivery of Care and Education:

• Ensure compliance with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Ofsted registration and inspection criteria, and local authority requirements.

• Maintain a strong focus on safeguarding and child protection, acting as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in the absence of the Nursery Manager.

• Lead the delivery of educational programs and curriculum, ensuring children reach their full potential through engaging, age-appropriate activities.

• Foster high-quality teaching and learning, with a focus on impactful outcomes for children and effective record-keeping.

• Create an inclusive learning environment that promotes outstanding practice and supports partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies.

• Serve as the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), leading all aspects of SENCO responsibilities.

Team Development:

• Build strong relationships with the nursery team, serving as a trusted leader who embodies and communicates our core values.

• Inspire and develop a motivated, highly skilled team, fostering future leaders through coaching, mentoring, and performance management.

• Support the professional growth of team members, including those undertaking training or apprenticeships, by providing regular feedback and guidance.

• Lead recruitment efforts, ensuring new hires align with safer recruitment practices and the nursery’s needs.

• Facilitate ongoing team training sessions, meetings, and supervisions.

Operational Leadership:

• Model our mission and values, demonstrating outstanding early years practice to the nursery team, children, families, and the community.

• Stay informed about policies, procedures, statutory requirements, and current early years thinking, and share insights to drive continuous improvement.

• Cultivate a culture of high standards regarding the nursery environment, safety, hygiene, and professionalism.

• Collaborate with the Area Manager and Nursery Operations Team to ensure the nursery receives the necessary support to succeed.

• Analyze Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and implement strategies to support the nursery’s performance.

• Manage budgets and financial objectives, including the administration of SEN funding, in alignment with our vision and values.

• Participate in regular meetings and collaborative projects within the Head of Early Years Practice group, contributing innovative ideas to enhance our care and education offerings., This job description outlines the core responsibilities and expectations for the Head of Early Years Practice role but is not exhaustive. The post holder may be required to undertake additional duties as directed by the Area Manager.

Qualified in Early Years to Level 6 or 7 (or above), with at least 2 years of leadership experience in an early years setting.

• Strong relationship-building skills with stakeholders, including children, parents, and team members, supported by excellent communication abilities.

• A positive, proactive attitude with the ability to motivate and inspire the team.

• Willingness to travel for monthly meetings at the central office or other nursery settings in Essex/Herts.

• Eligible to work in the UK with a satisfactory DBS check., * Bachelor’s (required)

Experience:

• Management: 2 years (required)

• Nursery experience: 2 years (required)

Licence/Certification:

• Driving Licence (preferred)

• Annual leave

• Company events

• Company pension

• Discounted gym membership

• Employee discount

• On-site parking

• Referral programme, Competitive salary

• Nursery discount for employees’ children

• 33 days of annual leave, including bank holidays

• Friendly, flexible team environment with social events throughout the year

• Ongoing training and development opportunities

• Access to health and wellbeing resources and support

• Free life coaching through the Dream Academy

• Discounted gym membership

• Financial wellbeing services

• Specsavers eyecare vouchers, Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: Up to £46,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events

• Company pension

• Employee discount

• On-site parking

• Referral programme

Schedule:

• Day shift

• Monday to Friday