Room Leader

KiddyKare Ltd; Henley-on-Thames; On-site; GBP 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate and dedicated Room Leader to join their high-quality nursery in Henley-on-Thames. This role is pivotal in providing exceptional care and learning experiences for children, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong Level 3 qualification in childcare, along with team leadership experience and a commitment to high standards. Join a collaborative team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families while enjoying a competitive salary and bonus package.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in an early years setting preferred.
• Strong understanding of EYFS and safeguarding responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a secure and caring environment for children's wellbeing.
• Support children's development through engaging activities.
• Lead a team of practitioners, ensuring high standards of care.

Skills

Childcare Level 3

Team Leadership

EYFS Understanding

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Level 3 in Childcare

Job description

Position: Room Leader

Location: Henley
Reporting To: Nursery Manager / Deputy Manager
Qualifications Required: Level 3 in Childcare (NNEB, NVQ or equivalent)
Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience in an early years setting preferred

Salary: £30k for this role, alongside the joining bonus of £2,500 that we continue to offer.

Candidate Profile

• Level 3 qualification in childcare or early years education (or equivalent)
• Minimum of 2 years’ post-qualification experience within a nursery or early years setting
• Strong understanding of the EYFS and safeguarding responsibilities
• Experience in team supervision or leadership within a nursery environment
• Confident communicator with children, parents, and staff
• Organised, proactive, and committed to high standards

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Room Leader to join a high-quality nursery in Henley. The ideal candidate will have a passion for early years education, proven team leadership skills, and a commitment to providing exceptional care and learning experiences for children. This role is critical in maintaining a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment while leading a team within a nursery room.

Key Responsibilities

• Child Safety & Wellbeing: Maintain a secure, safe, and caring environment where children's wellbeing is prioritised at all times. Ensure risk is minimised and appropriate safeguarding protocols are followed.
• Child Development: Support each child’s physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
• Staff Supervision: Lead a team of practitioners within your room, setting clear expectations and ensuring high standards of care and practice.
• Collaborative Communication: Foster strong communication with the wider nursery team, supporting consistent approaches to care and learning across the setting.

Core Duties

Team Leadership & Nursery Support

• Work as a proactive member of the nursery team, encouraging collaboration and positive team morale.
• Ensure nursery policies, procedures, and standards are adhered to at all times.
• Support the induction, mentoring, and professional development of new and junior team members.
• Model best practice and inspire others by leading through example.

Child & Family Engagement

• Build trusting relationships with parents and carers, providing regular, meaningful updates on their child’s progress and daily experiences.
• Support smooth settling-in periods for new children and maintain strong communication throughout their time at the setting.
• Ensure hygiene, appearance, and presentation of children are maintained to high standards.
• Contribute to a welcoming environment where families feel supported, informed, and involved.

Curriculum Implementation & Planning

• Deliver a balanced, engaging curriculum in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• Contribute to weekly and monthly planning, ensuring individual needs and developmental stages are considered.
• Monitor and record children’s progress, ensuring each Key Carer maintains accurate, up-to-date developmental profiles.
• Organise classroom routines and manage resources efficiently.

Documentation & Organisation

• Ensure accurate completion and maintenance of all required records, including:
  • Attendance registers
  • Emergency contact details
  • Allergy and dietary requirements
  • Staffing rotas and key worker assignments
• Prepare key documentation for new starters, including consent forms and room labels.

Health, Safety & Hygiene

• Adhere to and promote nursery health and safety procedures.
• Conduct and act on regular risk assessments for all areas of the room and setting.
• Oversee the cleanliness, tidiness, and hygiene of the room and equipment, ensuring proper cleaning routines are followed.
• Report any hazards, maintenance needs, or broken equipment to management promptly.
• Record and report accidents or incidents accurately, following nursery protocol.
• Participate in fire drills and ensure you and your team understand evacuation procedures.

If you’re a confident early years professional ready to lead a room and inspire your team, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today to be considered for Room Leader role.