At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to create exciting learning experiences for young children in EYFS.
- Company: Join the Grammar School at Leeds, a top-rated school with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's education while growing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must have strong teaching experience and a passion for developing others.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community with excellent facilities and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 38656 - 54022 £ per year.
Salary: £38,656-£54,022 per annum
Contract: Full time, permanent
Start date: 1 September 2026 (new starter induction day)
We are looking for a new Year Group Leader to lead one of our EYFS years (either Nursery or Reception). This will involve leading a team of approximately 8 colleagues working across 3 or 4 classes. You will be responsible for developing an exciting learning journey for our youngest learners, leading on the weekly planning and developing the pedagogical approach in the year group you lead. In addition, you will be leading your team, helping them grow and working closely with parents.
This is an exciting leadership opportunity for an experienced and highly effective classroom practitioner ready to lead a year group with vision, warmth and ambition. Working closely with the Assistant Head and Senior Leadership Team, the successful candidate will drive excellence in teaching and learning, lead curriculum planning and enrichment, monitor pupil progress and champion high standards across the year group. As a key middle leader, you will line manage and develop teachers and teaching assistants, support appraisal and professional growth, lead on pastoral care and behaviour, and build strong, constructive partnerships with parents. You will play a central role in shaping the strategic direction of the Primary School while ensuring a consistent, creative and inspiring experience for every child.
We are looking for a well-qualified teacher with a strong educational background and a proven track record of excellent classroom practice. You will bring experience of leading staff development, line managing colleagues and successfully leading a subject or key initiative. With excellent interpersonal and communication skills, you will be confident in coaching others through observation and constructive feedback, and committed to fostering a culture of high expectations and collaboration. A sound knowledge of current educational developments, assessment practice and high-quality primary pedagogy is essential, alongside a genuine commitment to safeguarding, equal opportunities and the wellbeing of every pupil.
In return, we offer the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a forward-thinking, supportive and ambitious school community.
GSAL Primary
The Grammar School at Leeds primary school welcomes children from 2-11 and is based in its own building on the main school site. We have purpose built facilities, including performance spaces, music rooms, art, food technology and science rooms surrounded by playgrounds and extensive playing fields. We deliver outstanding pastoral and learning opportunities to enable every child to be kind, be brave and grow a little every day, which are our core primary values.
In the primary phase, the national curriculum is not rigidly followed, but is incorporated into the school’s scheme of work. Children are offered a wide range of extracurricular activities including music, sport and drama.
In return we offer the chance to work with committed, enthusiastic children in facilities unrivalled in the north of England, and as part of a high achieving and professional team.
Why GSAL?
The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is one of the leading schools in the north and traces its history back to 1552. In the last five years GSAL Senior School has twice been named North Independent School of the Year, and North Independent School of the Decade in the Sunday Times Parent Power League Table.
At GSAL we are committed to the professional development of our staff. There are several opportunities for staff to learn and grow including fortnightly teaching and learning breakfasts (whole school), half termly teaching and learning lunches (primary), the annual teaching and learning conference and a range of apprenticeship schemes.
Benefits
- Enhanced school holidays (approximately 16 weeks)
- Significant discount on school fees
- Enhanced, generous PPA time, with most meetings held within the school day
- Subsidised childcare during INSET days (ages 2–11)
- Defined Contribution pension scheme through Aviva (0% employee contribution, 21% employer contribution, plus 4x salary life insurance)
- Training and CPD, including INSET days
- Three-course colleague lunches for £2.40, plus free tea, coffee and hot chocolate
- 24/7 online GP access for you and your family via Health Hero
- Employee Assistance Programme through Perkbox, including counselling, legal and financial advice
- Discounts through Perkbox, teacher discounts and Extras
- Scenic lunchtime walking routes across the 140-acre site
- Onsite gym and swimming pool, plus fitness classes (Pilates, meditation, kettlebells, spinning and bootcamps)
- Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
- Free onsite parking
- Access to the school’s extensive library facilities
- Generous leave of absence scheme
- Opportunities to be involved in extracurricular activities, wellbeing initiatives and community events
How to apply
Complete the online GSAL application form. Please be prepared to provide copies of any qualifications mentioned in your application. For any inquiries about the vacancy, feel free to contact.
More information about the role and responsibilities are contained in the job description and person specification attached in the documents section on our website advert. Please note we cannot offer tours or visits due to the high volume of interest. A tour is provided as part of the interviewing process.
The closing date for applications is: 08:00 Tuesday 17 March 2026
Interview date: Longlist interviews (via Teams) 20 March 2026, shortlist interviews 25 March 2026
Year group leader (Primary) in Leeds employer: The Grammar School at Leeds
Contact Detail:
The Grammar School at Leeds Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Year group leader (Primary) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Year Group Leader position or can put in a good word for you.
✨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. Remember, they want to see your passion for leading young learners and developing a strong team!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Bring examples of how you've successfully led teams, developed curriculum, or improved student outcomes. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their ambitious goals.
✨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 supportive and forward-thinking community at GSAL.
We think you need these skills to ace Year group leader (Primary) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching and leading shine through. We want to see your genuine love for education and how you plan to inspire our youngest learners.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for someone who can lead a team and drive excellence, so showcase your leadership journey and achievements.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and how they relate to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our fantastic team at GSAL.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Grammar School at Leeds
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest educational developments and primary pedagogy. Brush up on your knowledge of the EYFS framework and be ready to discuss how you would implement it in your year group.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or initiative in the past. Think about specific instances where you’ve developed colleagues or improved teaching practices, as this will demonstrate your capability as a Year Group Leader.
✨Engage with Parents
Since building strong partnerships with parents is key, come prepared with ideas on how you would foster these relationships. Share any previous experiences where you’ve effectively communicated with parents or involved them in their child’s learning journey.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as managing behaviour or supporting a struggling pupil. Think through your responses and be ready to explain your thought process and the strategies you would use.