Nursery Lead


Company:	Teaching Vacancies
Salary:	Not specified
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Exeter, EX2 9RN
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	28 Jul 2026
Closing date:	27 Aug 2026

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Summary

What skills and experience we're looking for

The foundations built in the early years can shape a lifetime of learning…

Before children learn to read, write or calculate, they learn something even more important.

• They learn whether school is a place where they feel safe.

• Whether they are valued.

• Whether their ideas matter.

• Whether they are capable of trying something new.

The early years are filled with remarkable moments. A child speaking with confidence for the first time. A friendship beginning. A problem solved independently. A growing sense of curiosity about the world around them.

These moments become the building blocks for future success, and they happen because of exceptional early years professionals.

Professionals who understand that learning through play is powerful. Who know that relationships come before results. Who create environments where children feel secure enough to explore, discover and thrive. Professionals who see the potential in every child and help them believe in it too.

If that sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

We are looking for someone who:

• believes every child deserves the very best start in life and can thrive and succeed

• holds a relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above, and may be a Qualified Teacher (QTS), Early Years Teacher (EYTS), Nursery Manager, Nursery Leader, Room Leader, Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Teaching Assistant or another suitably qualified and experienced early years professional

• is passionate about early years education and giving children the very best start in life

• creates nurturing, engaging environments where children feel safe, valued and inspired to learn

• understands how young children learn and develop, and has high expectations for their learning, wellbeing and behaviour

• builds positive, trusting relationships with children, families and colleagues

• values inclusion, safeguarding and meeting the needs of all children, including those with SEND

• reflective, collaborative and brings warmth, energy and enthusiasm to their work every day

In this role, you will:

• lead and develop our nursery provision

• create an engaging, play-based learning environment where children can flourish

• deliver a high-quality EYFS curriculum

• build strong foundations in language, communication, phonics and early mathematics

• monitor children’s development and plan meaningful next steps

• work closely with families to support children’s learning and wellbeing

• support children as they prepare for a successful transition into Reception

• ensure high standards of safeguarding and compliance with statutory requirements

• contribute to aspects of extended school provision, including breakfast club and after-school provision, with arrangements agreed flexibly wherever possible

What the school offers its staff

About Ide Primary School

Ide Primary School is a welcoming and inclusive school at the heart of its community. We are committed to ensuring that every child receives the very best start in life and develops a lifelong love of learning.

Our nursery plays a vital role in this journey, providing children with enriching experiences that support their development academically, socially and emotionally. As part of Exeter Learning Academy Trust, we benefit from a collaborative network of schools that share a commitment to excellence, inclusion and continuous improvement. Together, we work to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to flourish.

Why join Ide Primary School?

Because the early years matter.

This is an opportunity to shape and develop a nursery provision that has the potential to make a lasting difference to children’s lives.

You’ll be joining a school community where children are known as individuals, where relationships are valued and where staff are supported to grow professionally. A school where curiosity is encouraged, inclusion is celebrated and wellbeing matters. A school where your ideas, expertise and leadership can have a genuine impact.

Most importantly, you’ll have the opportunity to help children develop the confidence, resilience and love of learning that will stay with them throughout their educational journey.

If you are passionate about early years education, believe in the transformative power of exceptional provision and want to make a meaningful difference to children’s lives, we would love to hear from you.

Further details about the role

To apply please complete our application form and return it to hr@elatschools.com.

Closing Date: 28th August 2026

Interview Date: 9th September 2026

Commitment to safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. This role also requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.

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