Pre-school Lead
- Location: West Sussex
- School: Pennthorpe School
- Type: Full-time
Summary
Pennthorpe School is seeking an experienced Pre-School Lead to oversee The Beehive, ensuring high-quality care and education in a safe environment.
Detail
We are seeking a Pre-School Lead to lead The Beehive, Pennthorpe's Pre-School, and play a key role in shaping our Early Years provision. Working closely with the Head, Assistant Head (Teaching, Learning & Inclusion), Reception team and colleagues across the school, you will lead the continued development of The Beehive, ensuring children receive high-quality care, teaching and support in a safe and engaging environment.
This role combines leadership, teaching, and operational responsibility. You will oversee the day-to-day running of the setting, support and develop staff, maintain compliance with EYFS and safeguarding requirements, and work closely with parents to ensure every child is known, supported, and able to flourish.
About you
You will be an experienced Early Years practitioner with a strong understanding of child development and a commitment to creating an environment where children feel secure, confident, and engaged in learning. You will bring:
- A relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above
- A Paediatric First Aid qualification, or willingness to obtain one
- Significant experience working within an Early Years setting
- Strong knowledge of the EYFS Framework and current Early Years practice
- Experience of planning, assessment, and monitoring children's progress
- A clear understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities
- Experience building positive relationships with parents and carers
- Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills
- A commitment to continuous professional development
Key responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operation of The Beehive, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment
- Plan and oversee a broad programme of age-appropriate learning and play activities
- Manage daily routines, attendance records, and collection procedures in line with school policies
- Support children's personal, social, and emotional development, encouraging independence and confidence
- Maintain high standards of safeguarding, welfare, and child protection
- Build positive relationships with parents and carers and act as a key point of contact
- Work closely with colleagues across the school to support a smooth transition into Reception
- Ensure compliance with EYFS requirements, school policies, and health and safety regulations
- Contribute to the ongoing development and future growth of The Beehive
What we offer
- The opportunity to lead and shape a well-established Pre-School
- A supportive and collaborative working environment
- Professional development and career progression opportunities
- Access to the wider Hurst Family of Schools network
- Staff wellbeing initiatives
- Support for working parents
- Personal accident cover, including dental
- Contributory stakeholder pension scheme
- Lunch provided during term time
- Free on-site parking
Pennthorpe is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Documents
School data powered by Pressburst
Rudgwick, Horsham, RH12 3HJ
- 143 Day Boys (2-13)
- 124 Day Girls (2-13)
- IAPS, ISC
- 01403 822391
- www.pennthorpe.com/
Closing Date: 26 September 2026
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