The Senior is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and management of the nursery room for children aged 2–4 years. The role requires strong knowledge and confident application of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to ensure high-quality learning, development, and care for all children.
The Room Lead will ensure the room operates in line with EYFS statutory requirements, safeguarding procedures, and Ofsted standards, while leading the room team to deliver engaging, child-centred learning experiences and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment that promotes the welfare and development of every child.
Key Responsibilities;
Leadership and Room Management
- Take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the room, ensuring a safe, stimulating, and well-organised environment.
- Lead and support room staff, acting as a positive role model and ensuring high standards of practice.
- Ensure staff understand and follow EYFS requirements, safeguarding procedures, and nursery policies.
- Delegate tasks appropriately and support staff development within the room.
EYFS and Curriculum Planning
- Demonstrate excellent knowledge of the EYFS framework and ensure it is implemented effectively within the room.
- Plan, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate activities for children aged 2–4 that support all areas of learning and development.
- Ensure activities are child-led, engaging, and promote curiosity, independence, and creativity.
- Monitor children’s progress and adapt planning to meet individual learning needs.
Observation, Assessment, and Planning
- Lead the room in completing observations, assessments, and next steps in line with EYFS expectations.
- Ensure children's learning journeys are accurate, up to date, and reflective of development.
- Track children’s progress and identify any additional support needs or development concerns.
Safeguarding and Welfare
- Ensure the safety, wellbeing, and safeguarding of all children at all times.
- Follow nursery safeguarding procedures and report concerns in line with statutory guidance.
- Maintain high standards of care routines, hygiene, health, and safety within the room.
- Ensure ratios are met and children are supervised appropriately at all times.
Ofsted and Compliance
- Ensure the room operates in line with Ofsted expectations and EYFS statutory requirements.
- Maintain accurate documentation and records required for inspections.
- Support the nursery in preparing for Ofsted inspections and maintaining high-quality standards.
Parent Partnership
- Build positive relationships with parents and carers.
- Provide regular feedback on children’s development and wellbeing.
- Work collaboratively with families to support children’s learning and development.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with the nursery management team to maintain high standards of practice across the setting.
- Attend staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
- Promote a supportive and positive team environment.
Skills and Experience Required
- Strong and confident knowledge of the EYFS framework (essential).
- Experience working with children aged 2–4 years.
- Previous experience in a senior early years role preferred.
- Good understanding of Ofsted requirements and safeguarding procedures.
- Ability to lead a team and maintain high-quality early years practice.
- Strong organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
Personal Qualities
- Passionate about early childhood development and education.
- Committed to promoting the welfare and safeguarding of children.
- Positive, reliable, and professional.
- Able to inspire and support others within the team.
- May consider a candidate with a medical background.
Pay: From £13.25 per hour
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Strong knowledge of the eyfs
Experience:
- Childcare: 3 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- level 3 childcare qualification (preferred)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person
