Early Years Leader Ref. TV19626

Walsall Council; Walsall; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Leighswood School is seeking an ambitious Early Years Leader to lead our Nursery and Reception from April 2027 (or sooner). You will be part of the senior leadership team, shaping teaching, learning and the curriculum in the Early Years and working with parents, governors and federation colleagues.

The role is permanent and full-time with responsibilities across curriculum development, safeguarding and staff development in a supportive, forward-looking school community.

Qualifications

• Passion and enthusiasm for Early Years education
• Experience building an Early Years team
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to inclusive education and safeguarding

Responsibilities

• Lead Nursery and Reception provision, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning
• Develop the Early Years curriculum and assessment
• Support school improvement as part of the leadership team
• Collaborate with parents, governors and federation partners

Skills

Early Years leadership

Team building

Partnership with parents

Communication

Inclusive education

Job description

Early Years Leader

(MPR/UPR + TLR2)

Permanent

Full-Time

The Executive Headteacher and Governors of Leighswood School are seeking to appoint an ambitious, inspirational Early Years leader from April 2027 (or sooner if possible) to lead our Nursery and Reception provision.

The successful candidate will join the school’s collegiate leadership team of senior and middle leaders to become an integral part of the ongoing school improvement process with the responsibility for developing teaching and learning and the curriculum in the Early Years.

We need someone who:

• Has a passion and enthusiasm for Early Years education.
• Believes in an “enhanced provision” approach to teaching in the Early Years.
• Is inspiring and energetic.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm, initiative and flexibility.
• Has the experience and skills to be an effective Early Years team builder.
• Shares our commitment to working in partnership with parents, governors and our federation.
• Has excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Has a commitment to inclusive education.

In return we can offer:

• A unique indoor and outdoor learning environment with large, outdoor areas and a dedicated forest area.
• A strong, committed team of Early Years practitioners.
• A commitment to your professional development including release time to achieve your ambitions.
• Dedicated weekly leadership time out of class.
• A well-resourced school.
• An enthusiastic and dedicated team.
• Eager, responsive, and well-behaved children supported by a community who are committed to their success.
• The support of our wider group of schools that form the Cadmus Federation.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and encouraged.

Leighswood School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Shortlisted candidates must be willing toundergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, such as checks from previous employment and online checks, in line with the Keeping Children Safe in Education 2026 guidelines.

It is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. The successful candidate will have an enhanced DBS check prior to appointment. Further information can be found in our Child Protection Policy.