OverviewBrighton College Prep Kensington is an ambitious and innovative school, committed to nurturing curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child. We are seeking to appoint an inspiring

Head of Pre-Prep and Nursery

to lead pupils from Nursery through to Year 3 during an exciting stage in the school’s growth and development. This is a fixed-term, Maternity Cover appointment from December 2025 to July 2026 (approx.).

About The Brighton College Family of SchoolsThe Brighton College family of schools is renowned worldwide for its academic excellence, creativity, and commitment to kindness. With schools in the UK, Asia, and the Middle East, the family shares a common ethos of high ambition combined with a deep focus on the individual child. Pupils are encouraged to be curious, confident, and compassionate, thriving in environments that celebrate innovation and individuality. Being part of the Brighton College family means benefiting from the expertise, reputation, and pioneering spirit of one of the most highly regarded independent school groups in the world.

About CognitaCognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 20 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 95,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.

At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.

We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 100 schools in 20 countries, ensuring every child gets an education that’s, quite literally, world class.

It’s an individual approach that empowers every school, teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.

About the roleThis is a senior leadership role, reporting directly to the Head, with responsibility for the strategic, academic, and pastoral oversight of the Pre-Prep. The successful candidate will:

Lead a large and talented team of teachers and teaching assistants, supported by a Head of Early Years, Deputy Head Pre-Prep, and Heads of Year.

Champion high standards of teaching and learning, academic ambition, and innovation across Nursery, EYFS, KS1, and Year 3.

Monitor data, track pupil progress, and contribute to future school priorities.

Play a key role in admissions, open mornings, and parent engagement, ensuring an exceptional experience for families.

Ensure operational excellence in the running of the Pre-Prep, including staffing, events, and day-to-day organisation.

To view our detailed candidate pack, please click here.

Person SpecificationEssential

Proven leadership experience in Early Years and Key Stage 1 (with understanding of lower KS2).

Excellent knowledge of child development and curriculum progression from Nursery through Year 3.

Strong understanding of data analysis and assessment to drive progress and attainment.

Ability to inspire and support teams with warmth and authority.

Strong communication skills with staff, pupils, and parents.

Commitment to safeguarding and child wellbeing.

Postgraduate qualification or specialist training in early years/primary education.

Desirable

Experience within the independent school sector.

Familiarity with ISI inspection requirements.

How to ApplyComplete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is:

17th September 2025

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.

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