*About Walton Preschool* Just a short walk from the beach, Walton Preschool offers a warm, friendly environment with two well-equipped classrooms and a large outdoor learning area, including a children’s allotment. As a charitable organisation, we are supported by a dedicated board of trustees and are well-regarded within the local community. We believe every child is unique and deserves exceptional early learning experiences. If you share this commitment, you will find Walton Preschool a rewarding place to lead and grow. *Purpose of the Role* To lead and manage the preschool, ensuring outstanding EYFS practice, a nurturing learning environment, and strong partnerships with staff, families, and external agencies. *Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Management* * Oversee the day-to-day running of the preschool. * Lead, support, and supervise staff. * Manage rotas, ratios, and deployment. * Conduct supervisions, appraisals, and team meetings. *Curriculum & Quality* * Implement and embed the EYFS curriculum. * Monitor planning, observations, and assessments. * Complete audits, learning walks, and quality checks. * Maintain Ofsted compliance and prepare for inspections. *Safeguarding & Welfare* * Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). * Ensure all staff follow safeguarding procedures. * Maintain accurate records and risk assessments. *Parent Partnership* * Build strong, professional relationships with families. * Manage enquiries, feedback, and parent meetings. * Share children’s progress and support their development. *SEND Coordination* * Identify and support children with SEND. * Complete assessments and SEND Support Plans. * Liaise with external professionals. *Administration & Compliance* * Maintain all required records and documentation. * Support recruitment, induction, and staff training. * Manage budgets, resources, and health & safety compliance. *Essential Skills & Qualifications* * Level 5 qualification (Level 3 minimum in Early Years). * Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training. * Previous SENDCo experience. * Strong EYFS knowledge and leadership skills. If you are passionate about high-quality early years practice and want to lead a supportive, community-focused preschool, we would love to hear from you. Job Type: Full-time Pay: £25,000.00 per year Benefits: * Company events * Company pension * Health & wellbeing programme * On-site parking Ability to commute/relocate: * Essex CO14 8PT: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required) Application question(s): * Past experience of acting as a Designated Safeguarding Lead Officer Experience: * Nursery Management: 1 year (required) Licence/Certification: * Level 5 with a level 3 in Early Years (required) Work Location: In person