Early Years Room Lead (1–2 Years)
Full Time | Permanent | All Year Round
Join our exciting new chapter at The Ryleys School
The Ryleys School is entering an exciting new era as we continue to invest in our Early Years provision. We are looking for an outstanding Early Years Room Lead to take responsibility for our dedicated 1–2 year old room, creating an exceptional environment where our youngest children can flourish.
This is a rare opportunity to help establish and lead a brand-new room as part of The Ryleys School’s significant investment in Early Years, ahead of the launch of our expanded provision.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Early Years professional who is passionate about providing outstanding care, inspiring curiosity through play and leading a nurturing, high-quality learning environment.
As part of our expanding Early Years team, you will help shape the very beginning of each child’s educational journey within one of Cheshire’s leading independent schools.
The Role
As Room Lead, you will:
- Lead the daily running of the 1–2 year old room, ensuring the highest standards of care, learning and safeguarding.
- Plan and deliver inspiring, play-based experiences that support every aspect of children’s development in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
- Create a warm, stimulating and secure environment where every child feels valued, happy and confident.
- Build strong relationships with children and their families, becoming a trusted partner throughout their Early Years journey.
- Observe, assess and monitor children’s progress, maintaining accurate learning records and planning next steps.
- Support children’s personal care routines with warmth, sensitivity and professionalism.
- Lead and motivate colleagues within the room, promoting excellent practice and teamwork.
- Maintain outstanding standards of health, safety, cleanliness and safeguarding.
- Work closely with the wider Early Years and Prep School teams to ensure a seamless educational experience.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
- Holds a relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above).
- Has experience working with children under two years of age.
- Has experience leading a room or is ready to take the next step into a leadership role.
- Has an excellent understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage.
- Is warm, caring and passionate about giving every child the very best start in life.
- Is organised, proactive and able to inspire those around them.
- Has excellent communication skills and enjoys building positive relationships with families and colleagues.
- Shares our commitment to safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary.
- Full-time, permanent position working all year round.
- Excellent professional development and career progression opportunities.
- The opportunity to help shape an exciting new phase of Early Years development.
- A welcoming and supportive team within a thriving independent school.
- Free school meals during term time.
- Uniform provided.
- Access to the school’s swimming pool outside school hours.
- Free on-site parking.
To Apply
Please send your CV together with a covering letter explaining why you would like to join The Ryleys School and how your experience makes you an excellent candidate for this role.
Applications should be sent to:
Mrs Julia LangfordHeadteacherEmail: [email protected]
Closing Date: 7 August 2026
Start Date: As soon as possible.
Safeguarding
The Ryleys 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 successful applicant will be subject to safer recruitment procedures, including an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and all other appropriate pre-employment checks.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.
Pay: Up to £27,850.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Education:
- GCSE or equivalent (required)
Experience:
- Childcare: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person