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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dedicated team in shaping young minds aged 2-7.
- Company: A prestigious independent prep school near Winchester with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, extensive professional development, and generous benefits package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on early education and nurture the next generation.
- Qualifications: Degree with QTS/PGCE preferred and proven leadership experience in early years education.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment with excellent facilities and career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 85000 £ per year.
Job Description We are seeking an outstanding educational leader to join the Senior Leadership Team as Head of Pre-Prep (ages 2–7) at a leading independent prep school near Winchester. This is a rare opportunity to take responsibility for a thriving Pre-Prep and Nursery department, shaping its future direction while ensuring the highest standards of teaching, learning and care. As Head of Pre-Prep, you will: * Provide day-to-day leadership and management of the Pre-Prep (Nursery–Year 2) * Inspire, support and develop a dedicated team of teachers and support staff * Oversee curriculum planning and delivery across EYFS and KS1 * Ensure outstanding standards of pastoral care, welfare and safeguarding (Deputy DSL responsibility) * Manage departmental budgets, resources and compliance with the EYFS Statutory Framework * Contribute strategically to whole-school development as part of the SLT * Build strong relationships with parents, governors, and the wider community About You We are looking for someone who can bring: * A degree (with QTS/PGCE strongly preferred) * Proven leadership experience within EYFS and/or KS1 * A deep understanding of the EYFS statutory framework and best practice in early years education * Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills * The ability to inspire and motivate staff, pupils and parents alike * Experience in the independent/prep sector (desirable, but not essential) What We Offer * Competitive salary package (£65,000–£85,000 dependent on experience) * Senior Leadership Team role with genuine scope for professional impact * Extensive CPD and professional development opportunities * Generous benefits including pension scheme, fee remission, and private medical insurance * Supportive, well-resourced working environment with excellent facilities
Head of Pre-Prep employer: Harris Lee
Contact Detail:
Harris Lee Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Pre-Prep
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience in leadership roles. They might have insider info on openings or even recommend you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with theirs. We want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the whole community!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've inspired and developed teams in the past. We love hearing about your successes and how you’ve made a difference in early years education.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate leaders who can shape the future of our Pre-Prep department.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Pre-Prep
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Pre-Prep. We want to see how you can inspire and lead a team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your leadership skills!
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through in your written application. We’re looking for someone who truly cares about shaping young minds, so share your vision and what drives you in this field.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured writing that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Lee
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the EYFS statutory framework and best practices in early years education. Brush up on recent developments in the field, as this will show your commitment and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you inspired and motivated staff or improved teaching standards. This will help demonstrate your capability to manage the Pre-Prep effectively.
✨Engage with the Community
Be ready to discuss how you would build strong relationships with parents, governors, and the wider community. Share ideas on how to involve them in the Pre-Prep's activities and decision-making processes, as this is crucial for fostering a supportive environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the school's vision for the Pre-Prep and how you can contribute to its future direction. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school aligns with your educational philosophy.
