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- Tasks: Lead engaging sessions for children in a supportive, trauma-informed environment.
- Company: Join a compassionate team dedicated to helping children from diverse backgrounds thrive.
- Benefits: Term-time role with regular training, career progression, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth within a nurturing and inclusive setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience in early childhood education.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our EYFS compliant Early Years Provision is an essential part of our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) service, providing Early Years education & development for children who have English as an Additional Language (EAL). The parent(s) of our Early Years children attend onsite English Language classes for the duration of the Early Years session with the majority of our families having been resettled to the UK as those with refugee status. Our ESOL provision currently runs at two locations, in Shefford and Bedford.
This role is based predominantly in Shefford and is a term-time only role (39 weeks per year paid in equal instalments over a 12 month period) with regular team training and development opportunities at our central office in Bedford.
About the role
The Early Years Session Lead holds responsibility for leading sessions in our trauma-informed Early Years setting. They supervise a small team of L2 practitioners during the sessions, with the possibility of career progression to a Room Lead role with line management responsibilities following successful completion of probation period. As an OFSTED registered Early Years setting we work to support children to learn, grow and develop in line with the EYFS framework & Development Matters guidance.
The Early Years Session Lead is part of the EY Leadership Team, which meet together online on a weekly basis (currently Weds 15:00-16:00, with flexibility to amend meeting time to accommodate flexible working requests where possible). In addition, the EY Session Lead works in our EY setting in Bedford on a Friday alongside the Early Years Room Lead (Bedford) and the Senior Early Years Practitioner. We are open to discussing flexible working requests for the right candidate should working in Bedford on a Friday not be possible.
Next Step
If this sounds like you, please complete our application form and Equal Opportunities form.
Location: Shefford, and Bedford Town Centre
Closing Date: 21st May 2026 at 6pm
Interview Date: 1st June 2026 in Shefford
Early Years Session Leader (Level 3 Practitioner) in Shefford employer: HopeWorks
Contact Detail:
HopeWorks Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Session Leader (Level 3 Practitioner) in Shefford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the Early Years sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at our ESOL service. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of the EYFS framework and Development Matters guidance. We want to see how you can apply this in a trauma-informed setting, so think of examples from your experience that showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for working with children who have English as an Additional Language. Share your experiences and ideas on how to create an inclusive environment. This will definitely make you stand out!
✨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 our team and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Session Leader (Level 3 Practitioner) in Shefford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Early Years Education: Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those from diverse backgrounds. Share any relevant experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to supporting their development and learning.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Early Years Session Leader role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for.
Highlight Team Leadership Skills: Since you'll be supervising a small team, it’s important to showcase your leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've successfully led or supported a team in previous roles, particularly in an educational setting.
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at HopeWorks
✨Know Your EYFS Framework
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and Development Matters guidance. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to providing quality education for children with English as an Additional Language.
✨Showcase Your Trauma-Informed Approach
Be prepared to discuss how you would implement a trauma-informed approach in your sessions. Share specific examples from your past experiences where you’ve supported children facing challenges, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Team Leadership Skills
Since you'll be supervising a small team of L2 practitioners, highlight your leadership skills. Talk about how you’ve successfully led teams in the past, focusing on collaboration and professional development opportunities for your colleagues.
✨Flexibility and Adaptability
Given the nature of the role and the potential for flexible working requests, be ready to discuss your adaptability. Share instances where you’ve adjusted your plans or approaches to meet the needs of your team or the children you work with.