At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young children's education and personal development in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join Cognita, a global leader in independent education with a focus on thriving communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunch, school fee discounts, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and a commitment to safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a rewarding and supportive work environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience with young children required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Little Downsend Ashtead is the perfect place for little learners to begin their exciting adventures. Based on a lovely quiet leafy street, in a large Victorian house, Little Downsend Ashtead has a warm and cosy feeling about it that children and parents both love. Children here are happy and settled, gently introduced to playful learning and socialising by a team of dedicated qualified teachers. Class sizes are deliberately small, so even from the very beginning, we can provide children with the very best start, encouraging them to explore the world around them.
At each of our Little Downsend schools we instil the same nurture, innovation, love of life, dynamic energy and high standards, supported by experienced and passionate teachers.
About the Role
- Hours: 39 hours per week over 4 days, Monday to Thursday, 7:45am‑4pm with a 30 minute unpaid break + 4‑6pm Extended Day.
- Employment type: Full‑time, 52 weeks per year, Fixed‑term Maternity Cover contract (24.08.2026‑28.05.2027).
As an Early Years Educator at Little Downsend, you will play a vital role in supporting the education, welfare and personal development of young children within a caring, inclusive and engaging environment. You will work closely with colleagues to deliver high‑quality learning experiences that encourage children to develop confidence, curiosity and a love of learning. In this rewarding role, you will support children's daily learning and wellbeing, provide personal care when required, promote positive behaviour and help create a safe, stimulating and well‑organised setting where every child can thrive. You will build strong professional relationships with children, parents, carers and colleagues, contribute to wrap‑around care provision and participate in school events, training and professional development activities. Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children will be at the heart of everything you do, ensuring that each child feels supported, valued and able to reach their full potential.
Who We Are Looking For
You will hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent) and have experience working with young children in a nursery, pre‑school or school setting. You will have a strong understanding of child development and be passionate about delivering high‑quality early years education and care. You will be a positive and caring individual with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to work collaboratively as part of a team and build effective relationships with children and families. You will also be confident supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing, promoting positive behaviour and maintaining a safe, inclusive and stimulating environment. A strong commitment to safeguarding is essential, along with the ability to manage priorities effectively and contribute positively to the wider nursery community. Knowledge of the EYFS framework and experience working with children aged 0–2 years would be advantageous.
Benefits at Cognita
- Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
- Enrolment in our company's pension scheme
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- School holidays and public holidays
- Free parking on site (subject to availability)
- School fee discount
- Exclusive third‑party discounts
- Ongoing professional development
How to Apply: Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 2nd August 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex‑Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date for the right applicant.
Early Years Educator (Maternity Cover) in Ashtead employer: Cognita Schools
Cognita Schools in Leatherhead is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises professional growth and collaboration among educators. With a commitment to fostering a love for languages, the school provides competitive salaries, a robust pension scheme, and continuous development opportunities, making it an ideal environment for passionate teachers looking to make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Educator (Maternity Cover) in Ashtead
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Educator (Maternity Cover) in Ashtead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Cognita Schools, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Cognita Schools and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Schools
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Cognita Schools might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Cognita Schools.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
