Head of Early Years
- Organisation: St John's School, Sidmouth
- Location: Devon
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Salary info £28,000.00 - £31,000.00 per annum
Depending on qualifications and experience - Tenure: Term Time
- Closing Date: Wednesday 28 January 2026
We are seeking an exceptional Head of Early Years to lead our EYFS and play a key role in our whole-school safeguarding team as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL).
St John’s School
At St John’s School, we believe the earliest years lay the foundations for confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. Our Early Years provision is a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment where children are known, valued and encouraged to flourish.
The Role
This is a pivotal leadership role within our Junior School. You will provide strategic and day-to-day leadership of the EYFS, ensuring outstanding teaching, learning, care and safeguarding.
Working closely with the Head of Juniors and the Designated Safeguarding Lead, you will:
Lead and inspire a dedicated Early Years team
Deliver a high-quality, play-based EYFS curriculum
Build strong partnerships with families
Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding and child welfare
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for an experienced and compassionate Early Years leader who:
Holds a minimum of Level 4 qualification in Early Years or Education
Has significant EYFS leadership experience
Is confident in safeguarding, child protection and early help
Leads with calm, warmth and professionalism
Is passionate about children’s development and wellbeing
Why Join St John’s?
St John’s is a welcoming, values-driven school where Early Years is seen as foundational to the whole school. You will be part of a supportive team with a strong safeguarding culture and a shared ambition to give every child the very best start.
Safeguarding
St John’s School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check, including barred list checks, and all appointments are subject to safer recruitment procedures.
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours/weeks: 43 hours/term time
Salary range: £28k - £31k (depending on qualifications and experience)
Start Date: ASAP
Staff Benefits: Pension, free parking, lunch, refreshments and snacks
Closing date: 28 January 2026
Interviews: Anticipated for week commencing 2 February 2026
Further information: To discuss this job opportunity in more detail please contact the school on 01395 513984
Only fully completed applications forms will be considered, no CVs please
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We are seeking an exceptional Head of Early Years to lead our EYFS and play a key role in our whole-school safeguarding team as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL).
Description
St John’s School
At St John’s School, we believe the earliest years lay the foundations for confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. Our Early Years provision is a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment where children are known, valued and encouraged to flourish.
The Role
This is a pivotal leadership role within our Junior School. You will provide strategic and day-to-day leadership of the EYFS, ensuring outstanding teaching, learning, care and safeguarding.
Working closely with the Head of Juniors and the Designated Safeguarding Lead, you will:
Lead and inspire a dedicated Early Years team
Deliver a high-quality, play-based EYFS curriculum
Build strong partnerships with families
Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding and child welfare
Who We’re Looking For
We are looking for an experienced and compassionate Early Years leader who:
Holds a minimum of Level 4 qualification in Early Years or Education
Has significant EYFS leadership experience
Is confident in safeguarding, child protection and early help
Leads with calm, warmth and professionalism
Is passionate about children’s development and wellbeing
Why Join St John’s?
St John’s is a welcoming, values-driven school where Early Years is seen as foundational to the whole school. You will be part of a supportive team with a strong safeguarding culture and a shared ambition to give every child the very best start.
Safeguarding
St John’s School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check, including barred list checks, and all appointments are subject to safer recruitment procedures.
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours/weeks: 43 hours/term time
Salary range: £28k - £31k (depending on qualifications and experience)
Start Date: ASAP
Staff Benefits: Pension, free parking, lunch, refreshments and snacks
Closing date: 28 January 2026
Interviews: Anticipated for week commencing 2 February 2026
Further information: To discuss this job opportunity in more detail please contact the school on 01395 513984
Only fully completed applications forms will be considered, no CVs please
