Harrow Gate - Teacher (Nursery)

Closing date for applications: 22 May 2026, 3.00pm

Reference Number: ELTAPR2604

Salary Scale Range: Main Pay Scale to UPS

Contract Type: Fixed Term until 31st August 2027

Start Date: September 2026

Location: Stockton on Tees, TS19 8DE

About us

Harrow Gate Primary Academy is a well-established primary school located in Hardwick, Stockton-on-Tees, serving children aged 2–11. The academy is part of the Enquire Learning Trust, a collaborative network of schools that promotes high-quality teaching, professional development, and shared expertise. The school is recognised for its inclusive and supportive environment, where every child is valued and encouraged to succeed. Its mission is “to raise the achievement and aspirations of every child,” a principle that underpins all aspects of school life.

Values and Ethos

The academy’s ethos is rooted in positive relationships, inclusion, and high expectations. Strong, trusting relationships between pupils, staff, and families are seen as essential to both wellbeing and academic success. The school is guided by its core values, known as the “ART” of Harrow Gate:

• Achievement – encouraging all children to meet high expectations and engage fully in their learning.
• Resilience – developing confident, determined learners who show perseverance and pride.
• Trust – fostering teamwork, honesty, respect, and strong communication across the school community.

These values are embedded in daily practice and reflected in a culture where pupils feel safe, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential.

Benefits of Working at Harrow Gate Primary Academy

• Supportive and collaborative environment – staff work within a strong team ethos, placing children at the centre of everything they do.
• Strong leadership and professional development – access to continuous professional development and opportunities through the Enquire Learning Trust.
• Positive school culture – a welcoming, inclusive, and community-focused environment that values staff wellbeing and contribution.
• Focus on relationships and wellbeing – an emphasis on nurturing positive relationships, which enhances both staff satisfaction and pupil outcomes.
• Modern facilities and resources – well-equipped learning environments supporting high-quality teaching and learning.
• Additional benefits – access to pension schemes, mentoring, and a strong sense of belonging within a “family” atmosphere.

About the role

The Nursery Teacher plays a vital role in supporting the early development of children, typically aged 3–4 years. The position focuses on creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating learning environment where children can develop socially, emotionally, physically, and academically through play-based and structured activities. The role involves working closely with other early years staff, as well as supporting and engaging with parents, carers, and the wider school team to ensure each child’s needs are met.

Key Responsibilities

• Planning & Teaching – Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate lessons in line with the EYFS framework; provide a mix of structured teaching and child-led play opportunities; promote early literacy, numeracy, communication, and social skills.
• Child Development & Assessment – Observe, assess, and record children’s progress and development; identify and support children with additional needs; maintain accurate records and contribute to learning journals; create a safe, inclusive, and stimulating classroom environment; ensure safeguarding, health, and safety policies are followed at all times; support children’s personal, social, and emotional development; promote positive behaviour and encourage independence.
• Communication – Build strong partnerships with parents/carers, providing regular updates on progress; work collaboratively with colleagues and external agencies.

Day-to-Day Tasks

• Setting up learning areas and activities before the school day.
• Greeting children and supporting their transition into the setting.
• Delivering group teaching sessions (e.g. phonics, story time, counting activities).
• Facilitating play-based learning indoors and outdoors.
• Observing and interacting with children to support development.
• Managing routines such as snack time, toileting, and tidy-up time.
• Recording observations and updating assessment records.
• Communicating with parents at pick-up or through school systems.
• Attending staff meetings or planning sessions.

The Nursery Teacher role is dynamic and rewarding, combining teaching, care, and developmental support. It requires patience, creativity, strong communication skills, and a genuine passion for early childhood education.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a passionate, knowledgeable early years professional who places child development at the heart of everything they do. This role calls for someone who delights in working with our youngest learners, understands the importance of secure relationships and recognises that every moment—indoors and outdoors—is a learning opportunity. You will work closely with a dedicated team of practitioners, parents and outside professionals to create a nurturing, inclusive and ambitious environment where children’s individual milestones and goals are carefully supported.

Our academy is part of the Enquire Learning Trust, a large and supportive family of successful primary schools based across the North of England. We are situated on a large housing development in the north of Stockton-On-Tees and have a high proportion of children eligible for the Pupil Premium and children with a range of complex and additional needs.

We want to hear from Teachers who are motivated and willing to go above and beyond to improve the lives of the children in our care. Excellent knowledge of the Early Years curriculum and child development, outstanding classroom skills, the right motivation, resilience and a willingness to learn are essential criteria for all applicants wanting to join our Harrow Gate team.

What we can offer

• A school full of wonderful children who make us proud every day.
• A real commitment to the well-being of both children and staff.
• A supportive senior leadership team who are keen to help you succeed.
• Well-resourced facilities and school grounds.
• Great parents that are very supportive of the work that we do here.
• A play-based learning environment where children’s well-being and involvement is paramount.
• Lots of opportunities for personal development.
• A warm and welcoming atmosphere where we value innovation, creative thinking and we are all enthusiastic learners.
• Membership of relevant pension scheme.
• Opportunities for development and progression.
• Employee Assistance Programme provided by Health Assured.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Octopus EV Scheme.
• Lifestyle savings.

For more information, please contact. Visits to school welcomed. Please contact Sam Scott – 01642 673984 to arrange a convenient time.

DBS/Safeguarding Statement

The Enquire Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As this post involves access to children or vulnerable adults, the successful applicant will be required to obtain an Enhanced Disclosure from the DBS.