Head of Pre-Prep

Cranleigh School; Waverley; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution located in Waverley is seeking a Head of Pre-Prep to lead the launch of their new Early Years Foundation Stage provision starting September 2026. The ideal candidate will combine strategic oversight with a passion for teaching, maintain a 0.8 teaching commitment, and provide mentoring to a high-caliber staff team. Applicants should have a good degree, QTS, and a track-record of outstanding teaching. The position offers a supportive community environment and various benefits.

Benefits

Wide range of benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing teams and strategic planning.
• Deep knowledge of the EYFS Statutory Framework.
• A positive and adaptable personality.

Responsibilities

• Lead the opening of the new EYFS setting.
• Inspire staff through coaching and professional development.
• Teach within a Reception class with a 0.8 commitment.
• Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team and parents.
• Act as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Skills

Leadership

Teaching

Mentoring

Collaboration

Education

Good honours degree

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Job description

Head of Pre-Prep (3-7 years)

• Location : Cranleigh Prep
• Start Date : September 2026
• Salary : Commensurate with experience

Are you an inspiring leader with a passion for early childhood education? We are seeking a dedicated, nurturing, and experienced Head of Pre-Prep to lead the exciting launch of our new Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision.

From September 2026, we will welcome our first cohort of pupils aged 3–5 into a beautifully designed, well‑resourced setting. They join the Key Stage 1 classes that opened in September 2025.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a department from the ground up while maintaining the high standards and warm ethos of our school.

The Role

This pivotal leadership position combines strategic oversight with a love for classroom teaching. You will :

• Lead & Launch : Spearhead the opening of our EYFS setting, ensuring full compliance with statutory requirements and best practices.
• Mentor & Develop : Inspire a high‑calibre team of staff through coaching, professional development, and robust supervision.
• Teach & Inspire : Maintain a 0.8 teaching commitment within a Reception class, modelling excellence in the classroom.
• Collaborate : Work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, parents, and feeder nurseries to build a thriving community and a seamless transition to Year 3.
• Safeguard : Act as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) for the EYFS.

About You

The successful candidate will be a visionary educator who demonstrates imagination, an innate sense of fun, and a commitment to excellence. You should possess :

• Qualifications : A good honours degree and QTS are essential.
• Expertise : Deep knowledge of the EYFS Statutory Framework and a track record of outstanding teaching.
• Leadership : Proven experience in managing teams, introducing new initiatives, and strategic planning.
• Character : A positive, adaptable personality with the ability to engage parents, staff, and pupils alike.

Cranleigh offers a supportive community environment and also a wide range of benefits.

Candidates are requested to submit a brief letter of application (no more than one side of A4), together with the online application and supported by a full CV (via the ‘Apply now’ button on the website) as soon as possible and no later than 9 : 00 am Thursday 22nd January 2026. Applications are considered as they are received and therefore the vacancy may close sooner than advertised.

Interviews will be held on 29th January 2026.

Cranleigh School recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

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. The post holder will be subject to a DBS check