Head of Junior Prep School

Hurstpierpoint College; Cootham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school is seeking an outstanding Head of Junior Prep School to lead from April 2026. The role encompasses running the day-to-day operations, shaping a visionary future, and inspiring both pupils and staff. This opportunity in Sussex promises a nurturing environment for a holistic education. Extensive benefits include pension scheme membership, fee remission, and free meals during term time.

Benefits

Membership of the Teachers Pension Scheme

Fee remission throughout the College

Contributory BUPA health insurance scheme

Free meals and refreshments during term time

Free use of extensive sports and leisure facilities

Free on-site parking

Extensive CPD opportunities

Qualifications

• Qualified Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) is desirable.
• Experience across EYFS and KS1-2 preferred.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, high-performing environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day running of the Junior Prep School.
• Shape and deliver an ambitious vision for the future.
• Inspire and support staff and pupils to achieve their best.

Skills

Proven leadership experience

Strong track record in teaching and learning

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively

Ambition and drive for continuous improvement

Job description

Overview

As Head of Junior Prep School, you will:

• Lead the day-to-day running of the Junior Prep School, including EYFS.
• Shape and deliver an ambitious vision for the future of the Junior Prep School.
• Inspire and support pupils and staff to achieve their personal bests.
• Oversee academic progress, pastoral care, and enrichment programmes.
• Play a key role in the strategic development of the College.
• Champion safeguarding and wellbeing, a qualified DDSL is desirable.

We are seeking someone who:

• Has proven leadership experience, ideally across EYFS and KS1-2.
• Is ambitious, driven, and committed to continuous improvement.
• Has a strong track record in teaching and learning.
• Communicates with clarity, warmth, and purpose.
• Thrives in a collaborative, high-performing environment.

We are seeking an outstanding individual to lead our thriving Junior Prep School from April 2026. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to join one of the country’s leading independent schools, where every pupil is encouraged to achieve their personal best through a truly holistic education.

The Junior Prep School caters for children aged 4 to 11 and is a happy, vibrant and welcoming community. We believe that childhood is a precious time, and we nurture each individual so they flourish and make the most of every opportunity to learn and grow. Pupils are encouraged to explore the world around them, engage fully in co-curricular life, and strive to achieve their personal bests both in and out of the classroom.

Hurstpierpoint College is one of the country’s leading HMC co-educational schools, set within 100 acres of stunning Sussex countryside on the edge of the South Downs National Park. Just 20 minutes from Brighton and under an hour from London, our location offers the perfect blend of rural beauty and urban accessibility.

We offer extensive and generous benefits, including:

• Membership of the Teachers Pension Scheme
• Fee remission throughout the College.
• Contributory BUPA health insurance scheme
• Free meals and refreshments during term time
• Free use of our extensive sports and leisure facilities
• Free on-site parking
• Extensive CPD opportunities across the College.