About the School
Little Downsend Leatherhead, located just a 5 minute walk from the Junior and Senior School, possesses its own special character, with large bright, well equipped classrooms, brimming with interactive activities. Little Downsend Leatherhead has the largest outdoor area of the three schools, with over an acre of garden space including playgrounds, astro turfed sports area and a magnificent forest school zone.
At each of our Little Downsend schools, we instil the same nurture, innovation, love of life, dynamic energy and high standards, supported by experienced and passionate teachers.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.
At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.
We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 100 schools in 21 countries, ensuring every child gets an education that’s, quite literally, world class.
It’s an individual approach that empowers every school, teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.
About the role
As a Reception Teacher at Little Downsend Leatherhead, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the early learning experiences of our youngest pupils. You’ll be responsible for creating a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment where each child can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. Working closely with the Head of Little Downsend and the wider leadership team, you’ll plan and deliver engaging lessons aligned with EYFS principles, track and report on pupil progress, and maintain strong relationships with parents. Beyond the classroom, you\'ll contribute to the wider life of the school through events, pastoral care, and team collaboration. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic, supportive early years setting within a leading independent school.
This is a part-time, 0.6 FTE, fixed-term contract needed from January 2026 until the end of the Academic year.
To view our Role Profile, click here.
Who we are looking for
You are a passionate and qualified EYFS educator with a deep understanding of early childhood development and the unique needs of young learners. You bring creativity, structure, and warmth to your classroom, and can confidently lead teaching assistants and work collaboratively with colleagues. Strong communication skills, a proactive attitude, and a commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing are essential. If you\'re enthusiastic about helping children develop a lifelong love of learning in a vibrant school community, we’d love to hear from you.
Benefits
* Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
* Teacher’s Pension
* Free lunch provided during Term Time
* School holidays and public holidays
* Free parking on site (subject to availability)
* School fee discount
* Exclusive third-party discounts
* Professional Development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: Sunday 9th November 2025
Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
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