Executive Headteacher

Overview

Executive Headteacher for 2 outstanding Maintained Nursery Schools in Warwickshire (FT). A rare opportunity to step into Executive Headship and lead two exceptional Maintained Nursery School (MNS) teams. The applicant will be passionate about early years education and the future direction of Maintained Nursery Schools as system leaders in birth to 5 provision. They will be committed to making sure the Nursery Schools are the 'right place at the right time' for all children, including those with additional needs, with a clear understanding of what quality early childhood education looks like and how it is achieved.

Kenilworth and Whitnash Nursery Schools are linked by Federation. They are both outstanding and innovative Maintained Nursery Schools, each with their own character. Both Schools are inspired by the philosophy of Reggio Emelia and take part in action research to continue to refine and develop the educational offer for young children, adapting and responding to the needs of the communities, including the development of holiday club for working families. The Schools focus strongly on research-based practice and there are excellent opportunities for CPD, including support to gain NPQ qualifications and opportunities to be part of DfE, Best Start in Life projects. Ideally the candidate will hold, or have an interest in acquiring, the NPQH qualification and will be supported through that process. The successful candidate will also have access to local and national networks for support and training.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management of two outstanding Maintained Nursery Schools within a federation, ensuring high-quality early years provision and consistent improvement across sites.
• Lead on educational vision, safeguarding, inclusion and quality of teaching and learning for birth to 5 provision, including children with additional needs.
• Promote research-based practice, participate in action research, and support staff development and CPD (including NPQ qualifications).
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, communities and partner organisations; lead through collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
• Represent the schools in local and national networks, and participate in national initiatives such as Best Start in Life projects.
• Drive workload management and staff wellbeing initiatives to maintain a caring ethos while maintaining high standards and outcomes.
• Oversee the induction process, mentorship and support for staff, and ensure an effective local mentor and national network involvement.

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and substantial senior leadership experience in Early Years.
• Experience leading in Maintained Nursery Schools or similar settings; appropriately skilled in system leadership.
• Interest in or evidence of engagement with NPQH and NPQ qualifications; willingness to pursue where appropriate.
• Strong understanding of quality early childhood education and knowledge of the needs of vulnerable children and families.

Benefits and Opportunity

• Excellent opportunities for CPD and progression, including NPQ qualifications and access to national networks.
• Support through that process and opportunities to engage with DfE initiatives and national projects.
• Commitment to a good work/life balance and a supportive working environment.

How to Apply

Download an application pack from our school website or the DfE portal. Visits warmly welcomed; contact Emma at to book a visit.

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 4th March

Presentations to be delivered: Thursday 12th March

Interviews in person: Tuesday 17th March

EHT Application Pack