At a Glance
- Tasks: Create a fun and safe learning environment for children aged 2 and up.
- Company: Join a prestigious school with a rich history and a focus on nurturing future leaders.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free lunches, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Permanent role with term-time hours and holiday breaks.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while working in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Experience in early years education and a passion for child development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the School - Colchester Prep and High School
Colchester Prep & High School was founded in 1882 by Ferdinand Grӧne as a ‘most desirable establishment for young ladies’, providing a ‘sound English education’. Over the past 140 years, Colchester Prep & High School has built up a reputation for providing an excellent all-round education whilst preparing our pupils for life beyond school. Today that reputation still stands.
Through our inspiring teaching and forward-thinking STEAM curriculum, we build in our pupils, ages 2 to 16, the confidence, self-belief and strength of character to achieve their full potential whilst nurturing in them a global perspective and a mindfulness for social responsibility which will last throughout their lives. It is a community focused on creating the “Changemakers of Tomorrow’s World”. In line with our School Motto “God First, Others Second, Self Last”, we pride ourselves on our friendly and caring close-knit environment, which encourages good manners, consideration for other people and a strong sense of social responsibility among our pupils.
The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Nursery Practitioner to join our fantastic team.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools is proudly unique; however, our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.
About the role
The role of Nursery Practitioner is a central role within our small team and for someone who can support in providing a positive, safe, secure, and stimulating learning environment for our pupils from 2 years of age and who has a sound knowledge and understanding of the Early Years. This is a permanent, term-time role (+ 8 weeks during the holidays) with a September 2026 start date.
Benefits at Cognita:
- Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
- Enrolment in our company's pension scheme / Enrolment in Teachers' Pension Scheme
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- School holidays and public holidays / Holiday Allowance
- 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: 23:59 BST (UTC+1), Sunday 16th 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.
Nursery Practitioner in Colchester employer: Cognita
At Glenesk Pre-Prep and Nursery School, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where both children and staff can thrive. As part of the Cognita family, you will benefit from competitive salaries, ongoing professional development, and a supportive work culture that values your contributions. With unique perks such as free lunches during term time and school fee discounts, joining our team means being part of a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact in early childhood education.
