Early Years Phase Leader

Early Years Phase Leader

Full-Time 31650 - 43607 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
City of York Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and inspire the EYFS unit, transforming teaching and learning for young learners.
  • Company: Hempland Primary School, a supportive and collaborative educational environment.
  • Benefits: Dedicated leadership time, excellent CPD, and a motivated team to work with.
  • Other info: Join a committed team focused on safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Proven track record in early years education and strong interpersonal skills.

The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.

Hempland Primary School is looking for an inspirational Early Years practitioner to lead the EYFS unit which includes 2 Reception classes totalling 60 places. The successful applicant will be a leader with a proven track record of transforming teaching and learning. The position is class based with dedicated leadership release and PPA time, offering an excellent opportunity to showcase best practice and inspire the team around you. You will lead the phase to achieve consistently excellent practice, enabling all of our young learners to thrive and succeed.

We are looking for an EYFS leader who is / can:

  • Inspire, motivate and challenge our children through innovative teaching;
  • Be committed to their own development as a leader and to work alongside others to positively impact upon performance;
  • Be an outstanding classroom practitioner who will model and develop best practice, coaching and motivating a committed team of staff;
  • Have excellent inter‑personal skills;
  • Have experience of working with vulnerable learners with a range of complex individual and collective needs.

We can offer you:

  • Well‑motivated colleagues eager to move the phase forward;
  • Excellent CPD and opportunities to further your teaching and leadership skills;
  • Enthusiastic children proud to attend the school;
  • An established and supportive Senior Leadership Team;
  • Supportive parents and an active and committed governing body.

The successful candidate will have a clear, focused vision to advance the early years phase and the practical skills and abilities to turn that vision into reality. You will work collaboratively with the school’s leadership team and colleagues across the academy trust.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You will be required to undertake an enhanced Criminal Record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Applications are available to download from the school website: https://hemplandprimary.co.uk/our-school/vacancies/

Completed application forms should be posted or emailed to: Headteacher, Hempland Primary School, Whitby Avenue, York, YO31 1ET, Email: mburdett@hempland.pmat.academy

Closing date: Thursday 14 May at 12 midnight

Interview date: Tuesday 19 May 2026

Early Years Phase Leader employer: City of York Council

Hempland Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where Early Years practitioners can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, the school provides excellent CPD opportunities and dedicated leadership time, allowing you to inspire young learners while advancing your own teaching and leadership skills. Located in a vibrant community, you'll be part of a motivated team that values innovation and excellence in education.
City of York Council

Contact Detail:

City of York Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Early Years Phase Leader

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with their goals. Practise common interview questions and think about how you can demonstrate your leadership skills and innovative teaching methods.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your passion for early years education! Bring examples of your past successes and how you've transformed teaching and learning. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire and motivate both children and staff in the EYFS unit.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Hempland Primary School.

We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Phase Leader

Leadership Skills
Teaching Skills
Innovative Teaching
Coaching Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Experience with Vulnerable Learners
Commitment to Professional Development
Collaboration Skills
Visionary Thinking
Classroom Management
Motivational Skills
Ability to Inspire and Challenge
Understanding of EYFS Framework
Safeguarding Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through in your application. We want to see how you inspire and motivate children, so share specific examples of your innovative teaching methods.

Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a potential EYFS leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Talk about how you've transformed teaching and learning in previous roles and how you plan to do the same with us at Hempland Primary School.

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the job description. We’re looking for someone who can meet the needs of our diverse learners, so mention any relevant experience you have working with vulnerable children.

Follow the Application Process: Don’t forget to apply through our website! Ensure you complete the application form accurately and send it to the provided email or postal address before the deadline. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at City of York Council

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you’re well-versed in the EYFS framework and current best practices. Brush up on innovative teaching methods that inspire and motivate young learners, as this will show your passion and commitment to transforming teaching and learning.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or improved classroom practice in the past. Be ready to discuss how you can coach and motivate your colleagues, as well as how you plan to advance the early years phase at Hempland Primary School.

✨Connect with the Kids

Think about how you can engage with the children during the interview. If possible, share anecdotes or strategies that demonstrate your ability to inspire and challenge young learners, especially those with complex needs.

✨Ask Thoughtful Questions

Prepare some insightful questions about the school’s vision for the EYFS unit and how you can contribute. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if the school is the right fit for you.

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