Head of Early Years / Nursery Department at Discovering Talents Academy

Job Purpose

• The Head of Nursery is responsible for the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the Nursery department.
• The primary goal is to ensure the delivery of high-quality early years education in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment, ensuring that every child reaches their full potential in line with the school's standards and curriculum.

Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Strategic Management:

• Provide professional leadership and management for the Nursery team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement a strategic vision for the Nursery department aligned with the overall school development plan.
• Lead staff meetings, performance appraisals, and professional development sessions.
• Ensure the Nursery complies with all national educational regulations, health and safety standards, and safeguarding policies.

Curriculum and Learning:

• Oversee the planning and delivery of a creative and age-appropriate curriculum (e.g., EYFS or Montessori).
• Monitor student progress through robust assessment tracking and data analysis.
• Ensure that the learning environment—both indoors and outdoors—is stimulating, safe, and organized to promote independent learning.
• Integrate innovative teaching methodologies and technology where appropriate to enhance early learning.

Staff Management and Development:

• Lead the recruitment, induction, and mentoring of nursery teachers and teaching assistants.
• Conduct regular lesson observations and provide constructive feedback to staff.
• Manage staff rotas, ensuring appropriate teacher-to-child ratios are maintained at all times.

Parent and Community Engagement:

• Act as the primary point of contact for parents, building strong, collaborative relationships.
• Organize and lead parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and orientation days.
• Ensure regular and transparent communication regarding child progress and departmental updates.

Health, Safety, and Safeguarding:

• Act as a designated lead for safeguarding within the Nursery department.
• Oversee risk assessments for the physical environment and school trips.
• Ensure strict adherence to hygiene, first aid, and emergency procedures.