We are expanding our team and seeking a dedicated and qualified Room Leader at our small and inclusive nursery setting. Currently we have 8 children a day, increasing up to 16, aged 2 to 4 with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This is a new setting, launched in January 2026 with excellent feedback from families.
About the Role
You will lead, support, supervise and inspire the small team of staff to ensure best practice with children, following Early Years Foundation Stage guidance. You will work closely with the manager to ensure inclusive play opportunities, tailored learning, and daily routines are in place to create a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment. You’ll be a valued leader that believes every child deserves the chance to thrive and shine in their own way. The Room Leader may occasionally be required to undertake daily aspects of leading the nursery and deputise for the manager during short periods of absence, under the direction of the manager and/or the Director.
Hours: Term time, 38 weeks per year, 30 hours per week (Tuesday to Friday 8am – 4pm with a 30 minute unpaid break)
Salary: £16,245 (£14.25 per hour) for up to 6 months’ probation, £16,541 (£14.51 per hr thereafter)
Key Responsibilities
* Creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment, ensuring the safeguarding and welfare of all children in your care.
* Supporting children in play‑based and sensory activities tailored to their individual needs by planning, implementing and monitoring learning plans.
* Encouraging independence and celebrating each child’s progress.
* Working alongside and leading nursery staff, building and maintaining positive relationships with parents/carers and working with external professionals to best support the individual needs of the children.
* Ensuring the planning and delivery of engaging, child‑centred routines.
* To observe, assess and record children’s learning and development progress, in discussion with the nursery manager.
* Be involved in feedback with the manager to ensure best outcomes for all children (through staff supervisions, maintaining record keeping and ensuring high standards in all areas of the provision).
* Assisting with personal care tasks such as feeding, toileting, and changing.
What We’re Looking For
Essential
* Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification.
* Skills: Strong leadership and organisational skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team. Excellent understanding of the EYFS framework, particularly with disability support.
* Personal Qualities: A caring, patient, and positive attitude. Empathetic, kind, and committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported.
* Experience: Working with young children, particularly those with disabilities or additional needs; experience of room leader responsibility, leading a team and ensuring provision meeting EYFS requirements; willingness to undertake further training (e.g., first aid, manual handling, communication methods).
* Skills: Strong communication and teamwork skills. Good understanding of child development and safeguarding principles. Confidence in delivering and leading the curriculum with good organisation and time management skills.
Desirable
* Knowledge of specific conditions (e.g., Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral palsy).
* Experience using assistive technology or sensory equipment.
What We Offer
* The chance to make a real impact in the lives of children with disabilities.
* A supportive and collaborative working environment.
* Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
* Competitive salary, contributory pension.
* Term‑time post.
* 20 days (pro rata) annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing for length of service. Can be taken during term time.
* On‑site parking.
* Casual dress with Snap uniform top.
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