Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the launch of our new EYFS provision and inspire a team of educators.
- Company: Cranleigh Prep, a supportive community focused on early childhood education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a nurturing work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of early education while making a real impact on young learners.
- Qualifications: Good honours degree, QTS, and proven leadership in early years education.
- Other info: Join us in September 2026 and be part of an exciting new chapter!
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
All candidates should make sure to read the following job description and information carefully before applying.
Location: Cranleigh Prep
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for early childhood education? We are seeking a dedicated, nurturing, and experienced Head of Pre-Prep to lead the exciting launch of our new Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision. From September 2026, we will welcome our first cohort of pupils aged 3–5 into a beautifully designed, well-resourced setting. They join the Key Stage 1 classes that opened in September 2025. This is a rare opportunity to shape a department from the ground up while maintaining the high standards and warm ethos of our school.
The Role
- Lead & Launch: Spearhead the opening of our EYFS setting, ensuring full compliance with statutory requirements and best practices.
- Mentor & Develop: Inspire a high-calibre team of staff through coaching, professional development, and robust supervision.
- Teach & Inspire: Maintain a 0.8 teaching commitment within a Reception class, modeling excellence in the classroom.
- Collaborate: Work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, parents, and feeder nurseries to build a thriving community and a seamless transition to Year 3.
- Safeguard: Act as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) for the EYFS.
About You
The successful candidate will be a visionary educator who demonstrates imagination, an innate sense of fun, and a commitment to excellence. You should possess:
- Qualifications: A good honours degree and QTS are essential.
- Expertise: Deep knowledge of the EYFS Statutory Framework and a track record of outstanding teaching.
- Leadership: Proven experience in managing teams, introducing new initiatives, and strategic planning.
- Character: A positive, adaptable personality with the ability to engage parents, staff, and pupils alike.
Cranleigh offers a supportive community environment and also a wide range of benefits.
Candidates are requested to submit a brief letter of application (no more than one side of A4), together with the online application and supported by a full CV (via the ‘Apply now’ button on the website) as soon as possible and no later than 9:00 am Thursday 22nd January 2026. Applications are considered as they are received and therefore the vacancy may close sooner than advertised. Interviews will be held on 29th January 2026.
Cranleigh School recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. 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. The post holder will be subject to a DBS check.
Head of Pre-Prep in Cranleigh employer: Cranleigh School
Contact Detail:
Cranleigh School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Pre-Prep in Cranleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience with EYFS. They might have insider info on openings or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for early childhood education shine through. Share your vision for the EYFS setting and how you plan to inspire both staff and pupils.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview! Research Cranleigh Prep and think about how your values align with theirs. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you would approach mentoring and developing your team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community and contributing to the exciting launch of the new EYFS provision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Pre-Prep in Cranleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description carefully. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with our needs.
Keep it Concise and Relevant: We love a good story, but keep your letter of application to one side of A4. Focus on your most relevant experiences and achievements that showcase your leadership in early childhood education.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! We want to see your commitment to nurturing young minds and how you plan to inspire both staff and pupils in our new EYFS setting.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to hit that ‘Apply now’ button on our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered as soon as possible.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh School
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework. Brush up on the latest guidelines and best practices, as this will show your commitment to excellence and your readiness to lead the new provision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you’ve inspired staff or introduced new initiatives, as this will demonstrate your capability to mentor and develop a high-calibre team.
✨Engage with the Community
Be ready to talk about how you would collaborate with parents, staff, and feeder nurseries. Highlight any previous experiences where you’ve built strong community ties, as this is crucial for ensuring a seamless transition for pupils into Year 3.
✨Demonstrate Your Teaching Passion
Since you’ll maintain a teaching commitment, prepare to share your teaching philosophy and methods. Bring along examples of how you’ve modelled excellence in the classroom, as this will reflect your dedication to nurturing young minds.
