Hurstpierpoint College - Pre-School Lead

Summary

Pennthorpe School is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Pre-Prep Lead to lead our Pre-Prep provision and play a key role in the life of the school.

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.

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

Desirable:

• Experience leading an Early Years team
• Knowledge of SEND and inclusive practice
• Experience of outdoor learning and child-led approaches

• 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

Pennthorpe is an independent preparatory school where children are encouraged to develop confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning.

Set within extensive grounds in West Sussex, the school provides a broad educational experience supported by strong pastoral care. Staff work collaboratively and contribute to a busy school community, with children's wellbeing and development at the centre of school life.

Pennthorpe became part of the Hurst Family of Schools in Spring 2026 through a partnership with Hurstpierpoint College.

While retaining its own identity and governance, Pennthorpe benefits from access to shared expertise, professional development opportunities, and collaboration across the wider group.

• 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

Location: Pennthorpe School, Church Street, Rudgwick, West Sussex RH12 3HJ

Applications will be reviewed as they are received and the vacancy may close before the advertised closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. Early applications are therefore encouraged.

Pennthorpe is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. The school is also committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates

Documents

• Pennthorpe_Pre-School_Lead_Job_Advert_1 DOCX Document