Early Years Leader

Salary: £32,916- £51,048 per annum (Depending on experience)

Grade: MPS/UPS

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 37 hours per week

Location: York, North Yorkshire- Sheriff Hutton Primary School

Come and help our youngest children get the very best start!

Are you an enthusiastic, nurturing early years practitioner with the vision to make a lasting difference?

Sheriff Hutton Primary School is looking for an EYFS, Early Reading and Phonics Leader to lead our Reception class and have oversight of the nursery, bringing fresh energy and ideas to our Early Years provision.

Our Nursery welcomes children from two years old. This is a wonderful opportunity to shape a developing Early Years unit where children feel secure, curious and excited to learn—and where every child is known, valued and encouraged to thrive.

We are a small rural primary school with a big sense of community. Strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do: with children, families, colleagues and the wider village. We are proud of our warm, welcoming and inclusive ethos, and want our Early Years provision to be a place where children’s first experiences of school are joyful, inspiring and full of possibility.

You will lead the development of our Nursery and Reception provision, creating a stimulating environment and a rich curriculum that supports children from age two onwards. As our early reading and phonics leader, you will also inspire a love of books and help children build the skills and confidence to become successful readers.

We are looking for someone who:

• Brings warmth, enthusiasm and a genuine passion for early childhood.

• Understands how to help young children learn through meaningful experiences, purposeful play and strong relationships.

• Can lead and develop high-quality provision across Nursery and Reception. - Is confident in early reading and phonics and can support colleagues to deliver these consistently.

• Enjoys working in partnership with families and being part of a close-knit school community.

In return, we offer the chance to take a leading role in developing a special Early Years unit, supported by a friendly and committed team. You will have the opportunity to make your mark, your ideas and help our youngest children build the confidence, curiosity and foundations for learning that will stay with them throughout school.

Come and see what makes Sheriff Hutton Primary School such a special place to learn and work. Visits are warmly welcomed.

To apply, please submit your application to Business Manager by 20th November.

Interview date: Week beginning 7th December.

Sheriff Hutton Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check and other relevant pre-employment checks.

Key Dates:

Closing date: 20th November 2026

Interview date: Week beginning 7th December.
Start date: 5th April 2027

Key Documents:

Application Form
Job Description
Person Specification

North Yorkshire Council (NYC) advertise vacancies on behalf of schools and external organisations (third parties) in North Yorkshire. NYC are not responsible for the recruitment/employment practices of third parties and accept no liability in relation to the vacancy and any subsequent recruitment/employment processes. Enquiries regarding the vacancy or practices should be made directly with the third party.