We are seeking an inspiring Assistant Head & Inclusion Lead to join an exciting, ambitious, high-achieving Nursery. This exciting leadership role offers the opportunity to drive excellence in teaching and learning, and champion inclusion and safeguarding across the setting.

Description

SUMMARY OF THE ROLE

The Assistant Head and Inclusion Lead provides both strategic and operational leadership across the Nursery, ensuring a high-quality educational experience within a nurturing and ambitious environment. The role involves leading and developing Nursery staff, fostering strong partnerships with parents, and promoting excellence in teaching, learning, and pastoral care.

As joint Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy SENDCo, the post-holder plays a central role in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. Working closely with the Head and Deputy Head, they monitor pupil progress throughout the nursery, maintaining high standards and ensuring smooth transitions both within the setting and on to other schools.

The post-holder works alongside the Head, Deputy Head, and Head of Early Years to ensure full compliance with statutory EYFS requirements and to deliver outstanding early years provision. They champion the progress, learning, and wellbeing of all children, with particular focus on those who are vulnerable, require additional support, are newly arrived, in care, subject to Child Protection, have SEND, or demonstrate high levels of ability.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the post-holder will work collaboratively with the Head, Deputy Head, Early Years Lead, Operations Manager and Development Manager, and reports directly to the Head.

Teaching Commitment: Although primarily a leadership role, the post-holder will teach a rising 4-year-old class for one full day per week.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Application deadline: Midnight on Friday 20th March 2026

Interview Days: Monday 23rd March 2026, Tuesday 24th March 2026, Wednesday 15th April 2026 and Friday 17th April 2026

Employment Commences: 1st September 2026

Salary: £50k - £70k per annum

Contract: Permanent, full-time (46 working weeks per year)

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

Travel or Car Allowance :Up to £6000 per annum (£500 per month), paid in addition to annual salary.

Private Healthcare: Private healthcare provision.

Additional holidays: In addition to the nursery’s scheduled closures (21 days plus bank holidays), the post-holder will receive an additional two weeks of annual leave.

Staff Wellbeing Programme: Opportunity to participate in an accredited, 12-week evidence-based resilience and mental health education programme, led by our dedicated Cognitive Development and Wellbeing Lead.

Professional Development: Extensive CPD and bespoke training opportunities to support continued professional development.

Enhanced Pension Contributions: Enjoy enhanced employer pension contributions.

Laptop Provision: You will be provided with a work laptop as part of the role.

**Full details about the role can be found in the attached job application pack.**