Nursery Leader

Job Ref No. ECC5208-99S Position Type: Early Years Pay Range: Scale 7 Position Start Date: 01/10/2026 Contract Type: Part-time Contract Term: Permanent Application Close: 31/08/2026 Midnight Date of Interviews: 07/09/2026 School Name: Rolph Church of England Primary School and Nursery Location: High Street, Thorpe-le-Soken, Essex, CO16 0DY Hours: 37 hours a week (Mon to Thurs 8:00am‑4:00pm, Fri 8:00am to 3:30pm – with a 30‑minute lunch break) Contract: Permanent Start Date: 1st October 2026 (or as soon as possible) About Us: Rolph Church of England Primary School and Nursery is at the heart of the Thorpe-le‑Soken village community. Our purpose‑built nursery provides a warm and stimulating environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. We pride ourselves on our close‑knit community, where supportive relationships and teamwork create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. At Rolph, every child is encouraged to reach their full potential through a variety of educational experiences that foster their development as well‑rounded, enthusiastic individuals. Key Responsibilities * Provide a stimulating, educational, and safe environment for children in which they can develop to their full potential. * Establish positive relationships with pupils and their parents/carers. * Develop and oversee long‑term, medium‑term, and daily curriculum plans. * Ensure high‑quality teaching and learning experiences for all children. * Monitor and assess children’s progress through effective observation and record‑keeping systems. * Supervise staff, manage the key worker system, and support professional development through appraisals and training. * Maintain accurate records and ensure a safe, hygienic, and inclusive environment. * Foster strong relationships with parents/carers and liaise with external professionals. * Uphold nursery policies, including safeguarding, health & safety, and equal opportunities. Required Qualifications and Skills * NNEB or equivalent (essential). * Understand and implement school behaviour management policy. * Ability to manage groups of children, ensuring pupils remain on task. * Understand and support the differences in children and respond appropriately. * Working knowledge and experience of implementing the national curriculum and other learning programmes. * Understanding of different developmental stages and the impact of experience on these developments. * Understand the way in which play and games can support child development. * Understand and promote the value of emotional and physical well‑being in children. * Good literacy and numeracy skills. * Ability to be proactive and initiate action. * Capable of supervising and supporting others effectively. * Strong ability to prioritise workload, manage time efficiently, and consistently meet deadlines. * Demonstrates original thinking and a creative approach to resolving challenges independently. * Take responsibility for own well‑being. Why Join Us? * Be part of a supportive and forward‑thinking team. * Opportunities for professional development and career progression. * A welcoming school community with a strong focus on well‑being and inclusion. * The chance to make a real difference in the lives of our students. Working 38 weeks per year (term time only). Applications closing date: Midnight, Monday 31st August 2026 Interviews: week beginning 7th September 2026 If you would like to apply, please complete the online application form via Essex School Jobs. Safeguarding Statement: Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. The appointment will be subject to a successful enhanced DBS check and additional pre‑employment checks. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances. Contact: Nicola Emrich High Street Thorpe‑le‑Soken, Clacton‑on‑Sea Essex, CO16 0DY Telephone: 01255 861317 Email: nicola.emrich@dcvst.org J-18808-Ljbffr