Reception Teacher

We are seeking an experienced, passionate and dedicated Reception Teacher to join our team and inspire young learners.

Bassett House is a non-selective, co-educational, independent day school for children aged 3-11. It is situated in Notting Hill, London.

Bassett fosters an environment that challenges, encourages and nourishes the growing minds of all its pupils.

This role will focus on promoting great teaching and learning to ensure that children progress in their development to achieve their full potential. The successful candidate will be supported by a Head of Year, Year group colleagues, and a supportive school culture that advocates professional learning and development.

Key Responsibilities:

Teaching and Learning:

• Plan and deliver high quality, engaging lessons in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, covering areas such as communication and language, physical development, and personal, social, and emotional development.
• Promote early literacy and numeracy skills through interactive activities, storytelling, phonics instruction, and play-based learning.
• Use a variety of teaching methods, including group work, play-based learning, and structured teaching, to meet the needs of all learners.
• Assess children’s progress, strengths, and areas for development through observations and formative assessments, maintaining detailed records.
• Differentiate learning to ensure that all students, including those with special educational needs or English as an additional language, are supported.

Classroom Management:

• Create and maintain a positive, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment where children feel safe and are encouraged to explore and express themselves.
• Implement effective behaviour management strategies that promote positive behaviour and support children in developing self-regulation and social skills.
• Organise and manage classroom resources and displays to create a stimulating learning environment.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with teaching assistants and support staff to deliver tailored support to children, particularly those with additional needs.
• Collaborate with other teachers and staff members to ensure continuity in children’s education as they progress through the school.
• Build positive relationships with parents and caregivers through regular communication, parent meetings, and reports to keep them informed of their child's progress.

Professional Development:

• Engage in continuous professional development to stay updated with educational practices and new developments in early childhood education.
• Participate in school-wide initiatives, meetings, and activities, contributing to the broader school community.

Safeguarding and Welfare:

• Ensure the well-being and safety of all children in the classroom by adhering to the school’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Be vigilant and proactive in identifying and reporting any safeguarding concerns.
• Provide a nurturing environment that supports children’s social and emotional development, helping them to build resilience and independence.

The Person

Experience

• Proven experience working with young children, ideally in an Early Years or Reception setting.
• Thorough understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and best practices in early childhood education.
• Strong classroom management skills and the ability to create a positive, inclusive learning environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Experience working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
• Knowledge of early childhood assessment techniques and strategies for supporting children with diverse learning needs.

Personal qualities

• Patient, caring, and enthusiastic with a genuine passion for teaching young children.
• Organized and able to manage time and resources effectively.
• Reflective and open to feedback, always striving to improve teaching practices.
• Collaborative and works well as part of a team.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with previous employers and an enhanced check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.