Early Years Room Leader

Tonbridge, Kent LJ Recruitment Early Years Educator - Room Lead £15.10 per hour Location - Tonbridge 40 hours per week We are seeking an enthusiastic, dedicated and experienced Early Years Educator to join our nursery team as a Room Lead. The successful candidate will provide strong day-to-day leadership within their allocated room, supporting and mentoring colleagues while working closely with the Nursery Manager, Deputy Manager and Early Years Management Team. You will have a strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), safeguarding and child development, together with the ability to lead a team effectively and ensure consistently high standards of care, learning and practice. Responsibilities Room Leadership Support the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager with the smooth day-to-day running of the nursery by effectively leading, supporting and developing staff within your allocated room. Act as a positive role model and mentor for colleagues, promoting high standards of professional practice. Ensure safeguarding, health and safety and welfare procedures are consistently followed. Lead effective room organisation and maintain a positive, stimulating and inclusive environment for children. Prepare staff and the room to a high standard for open mornings, tours, settling-in sessions and other nursery events.Planning, Teaching and Learning Lead room-based planning to provide a broad range of age-appropriate activities that reflect the EYFS curriculum and the individual needs, interests and stages of development of the children. Plan activities that support children's physical, social, emotional and intellectual development. Incorporate relevant whole-setting themes, events and cross-curricular activities into room planning. Work alongside the EYFS SENDCo, where appropriate, to plan and deliver targeted interventions and support for children with additional needs, including working with external agencies where required. Monitor children's development and ensure appropriate next steps are identified and implemented. Maintain high-quality developmental observations, linking these to Development Matters and the Characteristics of Effective Learning (COEL).Key Person Responsibilities Take responsibility for an allocated group of key children, supporting their individual development, learning and wellbeing. Ensure all children in your care are safe, happy, settled and fully included in nursery life. Act as a buddy key person when required, ensuring continuity and consistency of care. Be attentive to individual children's dietary, medical and care needs, particularly during mealtimes, and ensure relevant information is kept up to date. Communicate any significant incidents, concerns or relevant information promptly and appropriately to the Early Years Management Team.Records, Assessment and Communication Ensure all day-to-day records and documentation are completed accurately and within required timescales. Maintain regular developmental observations and progress records using the nursery's online learning and communication platform. Ensure observations are appropriately linked to Development Matters and the Characteristics of Effective Learning. Provide clear and appropriate next steps following observations where required. Support colleagues in maintaining accurate and up-to-date records. Proofread children's reports and progress information, supporting colleagues to ensure documentation is accurate, professional and completed by the required deadlines. Communicate effectively with families and other professionals, both verbally and in writing. Experience and Qualifications Essential Early Years NVQ Level 3 or above, or an equivalent recognised qualification. GCSE Grade 4 or above in English and Mathematics, or equivalent. At least two years' experience working in a nursery or early years setting. Strong knowledge and understanding of the EYFS curriculum and child development. A sound understanding of safeguarding and children's welfare. Demonstrable experience of working effectively as part of a team. Desirable Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene qualification. Paediatric First Aid Certificate. Experience of supporting children with SEND and working alongside external agencies. Experience of using an online early years assessment and communication platform. Training can be provided where required.We are looking for someone who: Has a genuine passion for working with young children and supporting their development. Is enthusiastic, energetic and committed to providing high-quality early years education and care. Can confidently lead, motivate and support colleagues. Has strong organisational and time-management skills. Can monitor, assess, record and communicate children's progress effectively. Understands the importance of safeguarding and consistently prioritises children's safety and wellbeing. Builds positive and professional relationships with children, families and colleagues. Is committed to creating an inclusive, nurturing and stimulating environment where every child can thrive.Benefits Free Lunches 25 days holiday (15 discretionary, 5 days at Easter and 5 days at Christmas) Well-Being events Pension Scheme (Aviva) Uniform Corporate Gym Membership at The Angel Centre