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- Tasks: Lead the EYFS team and create engaging lessons for young learners.
- Company: A warm, inclusive primary school in Southampton dedicated to child development.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full-time maternity cover, and professional development support.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a nurturing school community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and strong experience in Early Years education.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on collaboration and child-centred learning.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Southampton
Start Date: March
Contract Type: Full-time, 10-month Maternity Cover
Salary: Paid to Scale (MPS/UPS)
Are you an inspiring and dedicated EYFS practitioner looking for a leadership opportunity within a warm, nurturing school community? A welcoming primary school in Southampton is seeking an EYFS Lead to join their team on a maternity cover basis from March, with the potential for an earlier start for the right candidate.
This role is ideal for experienced EYFS teachers ready to step into leadership, as well as strong practitioners seeking to further develop their expertise within a supportive, child-centred environment.
About the School
This friendly, inclusive primary school places children at the heart of everything they do. With a strong commitment to early childhood development, the school provides a caring and stimulating environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Staff work collaboratively to deliver a rich, play-based curriculum that nurtures curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
The Role
- Lead the EYFS team, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning across the phase
- Plan and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with the EYFS framework
- Create a warm, inclusive classroom environment where every child can thrive
- Monitor and assess pupil progress, using data to inform planning and interventions
- Support colleagues through coaching, modelling and collaborative planning
- Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and external agencies
- Uphold high expectations for safeguarding, behaviour, and professional conduct
What We’re Looking For
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Strong experience within Early Years, ideally with leadership or phase-lead responsibilities
- Excellent understanding of the EYFS curriculum and child development
- Confident classroom practitioner with strong organisational and communication skills
- A nurturing, reflective approach to teaching and leadership
- A current enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain one
In Return, You’ll Receive
- Competitive pay in line with national teacher pay scales
- A full-time maternity cover role with leadership responsibility
- Supportive senior leadership committed to your professional development
- The chance to make a meaningful impact within a caring, community-focused school
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: (url removed) Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Safeguarding Commitment
Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and adhere to Safer Recruitment practices.
EYFS Lead - Maternity Cover (Early Years Foundation Stage) in Northam employer: Supply Desk
Contact Detail:
Supply Desk Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land EYFS Lead - Maternity Cover (Early Years Foundation Stage) in Northam
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who might know about the EYFS Lead role. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s ethos and values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their community and how you can contribute to their nurturing environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to leadership and child development. We want you to feel confident and ready to showcase your experience and passion for early years education.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace EYFS Lead - Maternity Cover (Early Years Foundation Stage) in Northam
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with EYFS and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your strengths!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! Share specific examples of how you've created a nurturing environment or engaged children in learning. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. We appreciate when candidates can communicate effectively, as it reflects your organisational skills.
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 Supply Desk
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Familiarise yourself with its principles and how they apply to teaching and learning. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or supported colleagues in the past. Think about specific situations where you've coached others or contributed to collaborative planning. This will highlight your readiness for the leadership role and your ability to foster a supportive environment.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Research the school’s ethos and values before the interview. Be ready to discuss how your teaching philosophy aligns with their commitment to child-centred learning and community focus. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to be part of their team.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about their approach to professional development or how they support staff in maintaining high standards. This demonstrates your interest in the role and your proactive attitude towards contributing to the school’s success.
