EYFS Teacher and Phonics Lead

About the job

Key information

FT Permanent

Required from 23 February 2026 or sooner if can be released

ECT/MPS/UPS

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the teaching team of our popular, thriving village primary school. West Pennard CE Primary School was graded as ‘Outstanding’ in two areas, and ‘Good’ in all other areas (Ofsted February 2025).

What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

Professional Expertise

• Be able to demonstrate a deep understanding of early childhood development and how young children learn best.
• Be experienced in leading or coordinating phonics and early reading initiatives across EYFS and Key Stage 1 or keen to develop in the role to be able to.
• Be confident in delivering systematic synthetic phonics (SSP) programmes e.g. Bug Club Phonics.
• Be skilled at using assessment data to drive improvement and inform targeted interventions.
• Be able to model outstanding teaching practice and support colleagues through mentoring or coaching or keen to develop in the role to be able to.
• Be familiar with the latest educational research and government guidance relating to phonics, reading, and the EYFS Framework.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Be able to inspires and motivate others with a positive, can-do attitude.
• Be able to demonstrate initiative and creativity in improving curriculum delivery and pupil outcomes.
• Be able to work effectively as part of a team, building strong professional relationships across all phases.
• Be able to communicate clearly and confidently with staff, pupils, parents, and external agencies.
• Be a reflective practitioner who welcomes feedback and is committed to professional growth.

Personal Qualities

• Be warm, nurturing, and approachable — building excellent relationships with young children and their families.
• Be passionate about early learning and developing confident, enthusiastic readers.
• Be highly organised, resilient, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Be open-minded, flexible, and solution-focused when faced with challenges.
• Display high levels of energy, enthusiasm, and creativity in teaching practice.
• Uphold the school’s values and sets an exemplary standard of professionalism.

Commitment

• Be dedicated to ensure that every child achieves their full potential.
• Be committed to inclusion, equity, and the wellbeing of all learners.
• Be keen to contribute to the wider life of the school and its continuous improvement.
• Be enthusiastic about engaging parents and carers as active partners in children’s learning.

What is in it for me?

• Polite, kind children who are excited about their learning
• A friendly and supportive leadership team who are committed to professional development and staff well-being
• A school set in beautiful grounds
• An opportunity to be part of a hard-working, committed team who value working together to provide the best possible education for our pupils
• The opportunity to develop skills and to progress.
• The opportunity to be part of the Senior Leadership Team (depending on skills and experience)

DBS check

West Pennard School West Pennard School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and has a culture of vigilance to support this. Any offer of employment will be subject to a disclosure check with the Disclosure and Barring Service and all relevant pre-employment checks.

Supporting documents and information

Please visit our website. Visits to the school are warmly welcomed. Please ring 01458 832866 to arrange a suitable time.

Deadline for applications: Friday 12 December 2025

Interview date: Wednesday 17 December 2025

Application forms should be sent to the school office by post or email the School Administration Officer hwebster@westpennardschool.co.uk

Apply on the West Pennard CE Primary School website

Apply now