At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape high-quality early learning in a vibrant prep school environment.
- Company: Wellington College Prep, a values-led and ambitious community in Sandhurst.
- Benefits: Influential leadership role with professional growth and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding and promoting diversity and inclusion is essential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young learners' futures in a nurturing and progressive setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in early childhood education and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
Senior leadership opportunity to lead Pre-Prep education, shaping high-quality early learning within a values-led and ambitious prep school. Welcome to Wellington College Prep, located in Sandhurst, Berkshire, and set within the grounds of Wellington College. Wellington College Prep offers a vibrant and nurturing environment for pupils and staff. The School is a confident, ambitious and values-led community where children are known, supported and encouraged to flourish.
The Pre-Prep sits at the heart of this ethos, laying strong foundations for curiosity, confidence and a love of learning from Nursery through to Year 2. The Head of Pre-Prep plays a pivotal role in shaping this crucial phase, providing clear leadership and direction while contributing to the wider strategic life of the School. This is a senior leadership appointment with genuine influence, offering visibility and responsibility across the community alongside focused leadership of the Pre-Prep department.
The role brings together strategic, pastoral and operational leadership with a reduced teaching commitment, ensuring strong professional credibility and close connection to classroom practice. Working in partnership with senior colleagues, the postholder will lead the ongoing development of a nurturing, ambitious and academically strong Pre-Prep provision, aligned with the School's values and long-term educational strategy.
There is also an important outward-facing dimension to the role. The Head of Pre-Prep will play a visible part in admissions activity, parental engagement and the wider life of the School, acting as a confident and credible ambassador for Wellington College Prep.
We are seeking an experienced and thoughtful leader with a deep understanding of early childhood and Key Stage 1 education, strong educational judgement and a clear commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing. The successful candidate will bring warmth, clarity and confidence to their leadership, building positive relationships with pupils, parents and colleagues, and fostering a collaborative, reflective and inclusive team culture.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape an outstanding Pre-Prep within a progressive and supportive school community, where early education is recognised as foundational to future success.
Safeguarding & Wellbeing
Wellington College Prep is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo child protection screening including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. The role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. You must have the right to work in the UK.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to promoting an inclusive and supportive environment. Wellington College Prep is an equal opportunities employer.
How to Apply
In line with KCSIE safeguarding requirements, we do not accept CV only applications. All candidates must apply via our online application form. A CV may be uploaded in support of the application, but the application form must be completed in full for your application to be considered. Further details on the role can be found on the attached Candidate Pack and Job Description. Applications for all roles can only be accepted through our website.
Closing Date: Wednesday 17th June 2026
Interview Dates: 1st round interviews Monday 22nd June. 2nd round interviews Thursday 25th June.
Start Date: September 2026 / January 2027
Please note that we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date, and early application is therefore encouraged.
Head of Pre-Prep in Reading employer: WELLINGTON COLLEGE
Wellington College Prep is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and nurturing environment for both pupils and staff within the prestigious grounds of Wellington College in Sandhurst, Berkshire. As a values-led community, we prioritise professional growth and collaboration, providing our leaders with the opportunity to shape high-quality early learning while enjoying a supportive culture that fosters curiosity and confidence. With a commitment to safeguarding and inclusivity, we invite passionate educators to join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Pre-Prep in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Wellington College Prep and its values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn. They can provide insider info about the school culture and what they’re really looking for in a Head of Pre-Prep.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about how your leadership style aligns with their ethos. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've fostered a nurturing and ambitious environment in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure you fill out the online application form completely, as it’s the only way to be considered. A CV is great, but the form is essential!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Pre-Prep in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for, so make sure you highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the role.
Complete the Online Application Form:Remember, we only accept applications through our website. Make sure to fill out the online application form in full. A CV is great, but it’s the form that counts, so don’t skip any sections!
Show Your Passion for Early Education:In your application, let us know why you're passionate about early education. Share your thoughts on how you can contribute to shaping a nurturing and ambitious Pre-Prep environment. We love to see genuine enthusiasm!
Be Yourself:We’re looking for someone who can bring warmth and clarity to their leadership. So, when writing your application, be authentic! Let your personality shine through, and don’t hesitate to share your vision for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at WELLINGTON COLLEGE
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to really understand Wellington College Prep's values and ethos. Think about how your own leadership style aligns with their commitment to nurturing curiosity and confidence in early learners. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've embodied similar values in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a senior leadership position, it's crucial to highlight your experience in leading educational teams. Prepare to discuss your approach to strategic leadership, pastoral care, and operational management. Use concrete examples to illustrate how you've successfully led initiatives that improved early learning outcomes.
✨Engage with the Community
Wellington College Prep values community engagement, so be prepared to talk about how you would foster relationships with parents and staff. Think of ways you've previously engaged with stakeholders and how you plan to be an ambassador for the school, especially in admissions and parental involvement.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Given the importance of safeguarding in this role, be ready to discuss your understanding of child protection policies and your commitment to creating a safe learning environment. Share any relevant training or experiences that showcase your dedication to safeguarding and wellbeing in education.
