Head of Early Years

HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference); Market Harborough, Greater London; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Market Harborough seeks a Head of Early Years to lead their innovative Nursery from Fledglings to Reception. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional leadership skills, a commitment to pastoral excellence, and inspire a rich learning environment. Applicants should possess strong Early Years qualifications and relevant management experience. This role involves nurturing the well-being and academic achievements of children in a dynamic educational setting. A collaborative approach and high emotional intelligence are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in leading an Early Years setting with knowledge of EYFS requirements.
• Professional development record in education and leadership.
• Senior management experience with exposure to governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop Early Years provision including a co-education Nursery.
• Shape and lead a dynamic, child-centered learning environment.
• Manage stakeholder relationships and resolve pastoral challenges.

Skills

Leadership in Early Years setting

Excellent communication skills

High emotional intelligence

Resilience and problem-solving

Collaborative and flexible approach

Education

Education to degree level with QTS

Early Years teaching qualifications

Job description

Teaching careers in HMC independent schools

We are excited to invite applications from strategic, collaborative, and compassionate leaders to join our Senior Leadership Team in the role of Head of Early Years, reporting to the Head Master, from the start of the Autumn Term 2026.

This pivotal role is responsible for the leadership and development of our Early Years provision and site, encompassing a co-education Nursery - from Fledglings (2+) to Reception (4+) - and marking the beginning of our Prep School. The successful candidate will bring high levels of motivation and a deep commitment to the daily life of a busy independent school. They will demonstrate a devotion to pastoral excellence, outstanding academic performance, and a passion for Early Years education.

Above all, we are looking for someone who exhibits clarity of vision and creativity and is capable of shaping and leading a dynamic, child-centered learning environment where the well-being and academic achievement of every child is nurtured.

Key Knowledge Requirements

• Excellent academic credentials including education to degree level, QTS and Early Years teaching qualifications; a record of recent professional development.
• Experience in leading an Early Years setting and an excellent knowledge of EYFS requirements, including legislative, compliance and inspection frameworks.
• Senior and middle management experience with exposure to whole school leadership and governance.
• Strong awareness of business principles within an independent school context, including the ability to prepare, review and oversee the Early Years financial budgets.
• Deep sense of entrepreneurship and a strong desire to further develop the Early Years provision.
• Experience managing and resolving pastoral challenges, demonstrating outstanding levels of compassion and humility, resilience and proactive problem-solving ability.
• Experience managing relationships between stakeholders, including parents, colleagues and governors, with exceptional written and verbal communication skills to enable clear and concise correspondence across all parties.
• Enthusiastic, inspirational and confident leader, possessing high emotional intelligence, drive, energy, and commitment, with a presence which engenders confidence and respect from pupils, staff and parents.
• Alignment to the Values ethos of Dulwich Prep & Senior, including celebrating equality, individuality, and difference.
• Ability to plan, prioritise and manage a varied workload. Focuses on what needs to be delivered: understands what is required and responds promptly.
• Team-focused with a collaborative and flexible approach. Willing to adapt and respond to priorities, sharing knowledge and promoting good practice among staff at all levels.
• Proactive, ‘can do’ attitude to all tasks. Cooperative, helpful, and accommodating with other team members and staff. Welcomes challenges and meets them with enthusiasm.
• Good communication and persuasion skills with an ability to remain calm under pressure, displaying agility and ownership of problems within your sphere of influence.

Applications for this role must be completed via application forms, along with a cover letter explaining your suitability for this role and a completed Equal Opportunities form, which should be sent to Tamsin Hutson, HR Manager, at [e-mail]

Closing Date: Friday 9 January 2026, 12.00pm.

Longlist Interviews: Wednesday 14 January 2026

Shortlist Interviews: Tuesday 20 January 2026

Applicants who are successful at the longlist stage will be invited to return the following week to attend the shortlist stage.

Start Date: September 2026

We reserve the right to appoint at any time during the recruitment process.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo checks with past employers, online checks, and an enhanced DBS check.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees are valued and respected for their unique perspectives and contributions. We encourage applicants from underrepresented groups to apply for this position.

38-42 Alleyn Park, Dulwich, London, SE21 7AA

12 The Point, Rockingham Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7QU