Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire young learners while implementing creative, child-centred teaching methods.
- Company: A warm, inclusive early years setting focused on community and collaboration.
- Benefits: Up to 33 days annual leave, enhanced sick pay, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives and foster a love of learning.
- Qualifications: Level 2 in Early Years Education; Level 3 preferred, with mentoring experience.
- Other info: Join a supportive team that celebrates every success and values personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
About Us
The Children’s Centre is a warm, inclusive, and community-focused early years setting proudly rated Good by Ofsted. We are passionate about nurturing a love of learning in our children and supporting every family that walks through our doors. Our small, close-knit team works collaboratively to create an environment where children, staff, and families thrive together. As part of our ongoing development, we are introducing elements of the Montessori philosophy into our curriculum and embarking on an exciting outdoor learning project to transform our garden space, giving children a voice and sense of ownership in shaping their environment.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Lead Practitioner to join our team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated early years professional to take a leading role in the classroom, guide the delivery of our children’s centre curriculum, and inspire both colleagues and children alike. As our Lead Practitioner, you will:
- Lead and model high-quality teaching and learning in line with the EYFS framework.
- Inspire and mentor colleagues to deliver an engaging, child-centred curriculum.
- Support the integration of Montessori-inspired approaches within our setting.
- Champion the value of outdoor learning and help children take an active role in our garden development project.
- Build strong relationships with parents, families, and trustees to foster our community-driven ethos.
- Uphold the highest standards of safeguarding and child welfare at all times.
About You
We are looking for someone who is:
- Qualified to at least Level 2 in Early Years Education (Level 3 or above preferred).
- Confident in their knowledge of child development and the EYFS framework.
- Experienced in leading or mentoring within an early years environment.
- Passionate about outdoor learning and creative curriculum design.
- Committed to supporting the mental wellbeing of children, families, and colleagues.
- Understanding of the importance of partnership with parents and community engagement.
- Familiarity with Montessori principles is a bonus but not essential — enthusiasm for learning and innovation is key!
What You Will Gain Working With Us
You will be part of a nurturing, professional, and supportive team that values collaboration and personal growth. We truly care about each other’s well being and celebrate every success, big or small. We offer:
- Up to 33 days of annual leave per year (including bank holidays)
- Enhanced sick pay and paid leave entitlements
- On-site parking
- Regular social events and a joyful Christmas party
- Professional development and training opportunities
- A warm, inclusive, and community-oriented workplace
- Progression opportunities within a supportive and values-driven organisation
Safeguarding Commitment
The Children’s Centre is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check will be required for this role. All colleagues complete regular safeguarding training to ensure they understand and fulfil their responsibilities. This role is subject to enhanced checks as part of our safeguarding duties.
Skills / Qualifications:
L2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
L3 Early Years Educator
Montessori Diploma
EYTS
QTS
Forest School
Early Years Teacher employer: Pertemps Croydon
Contact Detail:
Pertemps Croydon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Teacher
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Children’s Centre before your interview! Check out their website and social media to understand their values and community focus. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some examples of how you've led or mentored others in an early years setting. Think about specific situations where you inspired colleagues or improved children's learning experiences. We want to see your passion for teaching shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for outdoor learning! If you have any creative ideas for integrating outdoor activities into the curriculum, be ready to share them. The Children’s Centre is all about giving children a voice, so let your ideas reflect that spirit.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! Inquire about their Montessori-inspired approaches or the garden development project. This shows that you're engaged and eager to contribute to their community-driven ethos. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Teacher
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! Share specific examples of how you've nurtured a love of learning in children and how you align with our community-focused ethos.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your qualifications, experience with the EYFS framework, and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you can inspire and mentor others!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. We value authenticity and want to know what makes you unique. Share your thoughts on outdoor learning and how you’d contribute to our garden project!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pertemps Croydon
✨Know Your EYFS Framework
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework before your interview. Be ready to discuss how you’ve applied it in your previous roles and how you can lead others in implementing it effectively.
✨Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since the role involves championing outdoor learning, think of specific examples where you've successfully integrated outdoor activities into your teaching. Share your ideas on how to enhance the garden space and engage children in this project.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Community Engagement
The Children’s Centre values community, so be prepared to talk about how you’ve built relationships with parents and colleagues in the past. Highlight any initiatives you’ve led that fostered a sense of community and collaboration.
✨Demonstrate Your Mentoring Skills
As a Lead Practitioner, you’ll be mentoring others. Think of times when you’ve supported or guided colleagues in their professional development. Be ready to share your approach to mentoring and how you inspire others to deliver high-quality teaching.
