EYFS Lead - Maternity Cover (Early Years Foundation Stage)

EYFS Lead – Maternity Cover (Early Years Foundation Stage)

Location: Southampton Start Date: March Contract Type: Full-time, 10‑month Maternity Cover Salary: Paid to Scale (MPS/UPS)

Are you an inspiring and dedicated EYFS practitioner looking for a leadership opportunity within a warm, nurturing school community? A welcoming primary school in Southampton is seeking an EYFS Lead to join their team on a maternity cover basis from March, with the potential for an earlier start for the right candidate.

This role is ideal for experienced EYFS teachers ready to step into leadership, as well as strong practitioners seeking to further develop their expertise within a supportive, child‑centred environment.

About the School

This friendly, inclusive primary school places children at the heart of everything they do. With a strong commitment to early childhood development, the school provides a caring and stimulating environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Staff work collaboratively to deliver a rich, play‑based curriculum that nurtures curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

The Role

Lead the EYFS team, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning across the phase

Plan and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons aligned with the EYFS framework

Create a warm, inclusive classroom environment where every child can thrive

Monitor and assess pupil progress, using data to inform planning and interventions

Support colleagues through coaching, modelling and collaborative planning

Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and external agencies

Uphold high expectations for safeguarding, behaviour, and professional conduct

What We’re Looking For

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Strong experience within Early Years, ideally with leadership or phase‑lead responsibilities

Excellent understanding of the EYFS curriculum and child development

Confident classroom practitioner with strong organisational and communication skills

A nurturing, reflective approach to teaching and leadership

A current enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain one

In Return, You’ll Receive

Competitive pay in line with national teacher pay scales

A full-time maternity cover role with leadership responsibility

Supportive senior leadership committed to your professional development

The chance to make a meaningful impact within a caring, community‑focused school

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: (url removed) Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Refer a Friend

Earn up to £150 collectively when you refer a teacher or teaching assistant. Contact us for more information.

Safeguarding Commitment

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and adhere to Safer Recruitment practices
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed