Head of Nursery; Maternity Cover

About the School

Brighton College Prep Kensington is a thriving independent preparatory school in central London, educating boys and girls from the age of 2 to 13. Guided by our core values of confidence, curiosity, and kindness, we offer a broad, ambitious, and enriching education that places academic excellence, creativity, and outstanding pastoral care at its heart. Our Nursery provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 2-4 years, where pupils feel safe, valued and encouraged to explore, discover and develop independence from the very beginning of their educational journey.

Through thoughtful teaching and carefully designed learning experiences we lay strong foundations for future learning while supporting children’s wellbeing, confidence and curiosity. In 2025 Brighton College Prep Kensington was named a finalist for London Independent School of the Year and runner-up in The Week's Best of the Best awards for City Prep Schools. Situated beside Exhibition Road in the museum district of central London, the school enjoys an exceptional location that enriches pupils’ learning and curiosity.

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we operate 90 schools in 21 countries, serving more than 100,000 students. Our collective purpose is to create an environment where every student can thrive in a rapidly evolving world. We nurture each student's distinct personality and strengths and support them academically, socially and emotionally wherever they are in the world.

Brighton College Prep Kensington is a proud member of the Brighton College Family of Schools, which includes Brighton College, three other UK based Prep Schools and a growing network of schools across the world. The network offers significant development and collaboration opportunities for staff, complemented by the strong pastoral ethos, academic excellence and innovation of the group.

We are looking for an experienced Head of Nursery (Maternity Cover) to lead and shape the Nursery provision. This role is central to the school’s vision during a key stage of development. As Head of Nursery you will develop an outstanding Early Years environment for children aged 2‑4, ensuring the quality of teaching, care and learning experiences reflects the highest standards of Early Years practice.

You will work closely with the Head of Pre‑Prep & Nursery, leading a talented and committed team of Nursery Teachers and Early Years Practitioners, and shaping a Nursery widely recognised for its warmth, creativity, and excellence in early childhood education. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on engagement in teaching and learning.

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent Early Years teaching qualification.
• Significant EYFS experience, particularly with children aged 2-4.
• Secure knowledge of the EYFS framework.
• Evidence of leadership or coordination within an Early Years setting.
• Strong understanding of early childhood development and assessment.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Strong commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing.
• Familiarity with ISI inspection frameworks.

• Experience in an independent or preparatory school.
• Experience developing or expanding Early Years provision.
• Experience supporting Early Years colleagues through further qualifications.

• Join a forward‑thinking school community with high ambitions for both pupils and staff.
• Central London location beside Exhibition Road provides world‑class museums, galleries and cultural institutions on our doorstep.
• Part of the Brighton College family of schools, offering professional collaboration, shared expertise and ongoing professional development.
• A supportive and collegiate working environment, excellent facilities and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the wider life of the school.
• Competitive salaries, exceptional facilities, free school lunches, tea & coffee, snacks and fee remission for eligible children (subject to entry assessments and place availability).

Complete this application before the closing date:
Monday 29th June 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. 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. 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.