Are you an inspiring early years practitioner who believes that young children learn best through exploration, curiosity and meaningful relationships?
We are looking for a passionate and reflective Room Leader to lead our 2–3 year old provision and help create a magical environment where children feel safe, valued and inspired to learn.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced practitioner who shares our belief that childhood should be joyful and full of discovery. Our approach to learning is strongly influenced by The Curiosity Approach, where authentic resources, beautiful environments and child-led exploration allow children’s natural curiosity to flourish.
If you love loose parts, open-ended resources, cosy spaces, storytelling, and watching children’s ideas unfold, we would love to hear from you.
About the Role
As our 2–3 Year Old Room Leader, you will play a key role in shaping the experiences of our youngest learners. You will lead a small team of practitioners, creating an environment where curiosity is celebrated, independence is encouraged and every child’s voice is heard.
You will ensure the highest standards of care, learning and wellbeing, while inspiring colleagues through your passion for early childhood education.
What You Will Do
Lead an Inspiring Early Years Team
1. Lead and support the 2–3 year old room team, modelling excellent early years practice.
2. Mentor and guide teaching assistants and practitioners, helping them develop their confidence and skills.
3. Organise daily routines that respect the rhythms of young children’s play and exploration.
4. Work collaboratively with the Senior Leadership Team to maintain high standards across the school.
Create a Curious Learning Environment
5. Plan meaningful experiences that reflect children’s interests and encourage exploration and discovery.
6. Create inviting, natural and authentic learning spaces inspired by The Curiosity Approach.
7. Support children’s development across the EYFS and our bespoke federation curriculum.
8. Encourage children to develop language, social confidence and independence through play and relationships.
Observe, Reflect and Plan
9. Observe children carefully to understand their interests, schemas and development.
10. Use observations to plan thoughtful next steps in learning.
11. Maintain accurate learning records and complete two-year-old progress checks.
Safeguard and Nurture
12. Ensure the safety, wellbeing and emotional security of every child.
13. Promote positive behaviour, kindness and belonging.
14. Follow safeguarding, health and safety and child protection procedures.
Work in Partnership with Families
15. Build strong, trusting relationships with parents and carers.
16. Share children’s progress and celebrate their achievements.
Champion Inclusion
17. Ensure every child feels valued, included and supported.
18. Work with the SENDCo and external agencies to support children with additional needs.
19. Create a culture where diversity is celebrated and every child can thrive.
What We Are Looking For:
Essential
20. Minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification [full and relevant] (or above)
21. Experience working in the EYFS
22. Strong knowledge of EYFS and child development
23. Experience leading or supporting a team in early years
24. Good understanding of safeguarding and SEND
25. Paediatric First Aid qualification (or willingness to work towards)
Desirable
26. Experience in Good or Outstanding early years settings
27. Experience working with 2–3 year old children
28. Experience in a Maintained Nursery School or School Based Nursery
29. Knowledge or experience of The Curiosity Approach
30. Experience leading staff or developing practice
Why Join Us?
You will be part of a federation of 2 x Local Authority, Maintained Nursery Schools that truly value childhood, curiosity and creativity. We believe that children deserve environments that are beautiful, thoughtful and full of possibilities. We support our staff to be reflective, innovative practitioners.
Together we aim to create a place where:
31. children feel safe, curious and inspired
32. practitioners feel valued, supported and empowered
33. learning is driven by wonder, play and imagination
If you are a warm, creative and motivated practitioner who believes in the power of curiosity, we would love to welcome you to our team.
The Federation of Crigglestone and The Castle Nursery Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to:
34. Enhanced DBS checks
35. Medical clearance
36. References