Early Years Leader and Reception Teacher

Following the promotion of our highly valued and well-regarded Early Years Leader, the Governors of Moorthorpe Primary School with Inclusion Resource are delighted to invite applications for an enthusiastic, nurturing and ambitious Early Years Leader to join our team from Easter 2027 or sooner.

This is an exciting opportunity for an exceptional practitioner who is passionate about Early Years education and who wants to play a key role in shaping the very best start for our youngest learners. We are seeking someone who can inspire children, staff and families through a strong understanding of child development, high-quality provision and outstanding teaching and learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Moorthorpe is a truly special place to work. Visitors consistently comment on the calm, happy atmosphere and the strong sense of community that is felt as soon as you walk through the door. We value kindness, teamwork and positivity, and place staff wellbeing firmly at the heart of our leadership decisions.

At Moorthorpe Primary School, we have high expectations for everyone and are ambitious for every child. We believe success comes in many forms, not just academic achievement. Children's emotional wellbeing, confidence, independence and love of lifelong learning are central to everything we do. Teamwork, professional trust and work-life balance are genuine priorities for our leaders and Governors.

As our Early Years Leader, you will:
Lead and develop the strategic direction of the Early Years Foundation Stage, ensuring the highest standards of provision, teaching and learning.

Inspire and support colleagues to deliver engaging, ambitious and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

Monitor and evaluate the quality of Early Years provision, driving continual improvement through coaching, modelling and professional dialogue.

Lead the assessment and tracking of children's progress, ensuring all children, particularly disadvantaged pupils and those with SEND, make strong progress from their starting points.

Develop highly effective partnerships with parents and carers to support children's learning and development.

Strengthen transition arrangements from home and nursery settings into Reception and from Reception into KS1.

Work closely with senior leaders to promote an inclusive, nurturing and ambitious culture where every child can flourish.

Teach within our Reception class, creating a safe, stimulating and enabling environment where children feel valued, confident and eager to learn.

Undertake an additional curriculum leadership responsibility (subject area to be agreed).

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a strong understanding of child development and the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.
• Has experience of leading or contributing significantly to Early Years improvement.
• Is an excellent classroom practitioner with consistently high expectations for all children.
• Has a proven ability to develop engaging learning environments that promote curiosity, independence and sustained thinking.
• Understands the importance of early language development, communication and interaction in securing future success.
• Has a strong commitment to inclusive practice and meeting the needs of all learners, including children with SEND and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Can effectively analyse assessment information and use it to improve outcomes.
• Is an inspirational team player who can motivate and develop others.
• Builds positive relationships with children, families, staff and external agencies.
• Demonstrates resilience, enthusiasm and a passion for continuous professional development.

In return, we offer:

• A welcoming, supportive and professional staff team committed to inclusive practice.
• Happy, caring and enthusiastic children who love learning.
• High-quality professional development and leadership development opportunities.
• A well-resourced and attractive Early Years environment.
• Opportunities to shape and develop Early Years provision within a school that values innovation and creativity.
• A leadership team that genuinely values staff wellbeing and workload balance.
• The opportunity to work in a school where children are truly at the heart of every decision.

We strongly encourage prospective applicants to visit the school to experience our welcoming atmosphere first hand and to learn more about the exciting opportunities available at Moorthorpe Primary School.

If you are passionate about giving children the very best start to their education and have the vision, expertise and enthusiasm to lead our Early Years provision, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact the school office on 01977 642820 to arrange a tour with the Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher.

Closing date for applications is Monday 23rd November 2026. Email: headteacher@moorthorpe.wakefield.sch.uk

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview on Monday 30th November 2026.

The successful applicant will be required to complete a Disclosure Application Form and to provide criminal conviction information. For further information please visit: jobs.wakefield.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can contact the Recruitment Line on 0845 6036049 (typetalk calls welcome) or email: jobs@wakefield.gov.uk.