Early Years Teacher

About the school

Hastings School, founded in 1971, serves students aged 2-18 from a diverse community of 56 nationalities across six sites in Madrid. The school is a prestigious international institution within the Cognita family, delivering a holistic educational approach that achieves outstanding academic results. Recent graduates have progressed to leading universities including the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, Duke University, University of Edinburgh, King’s College London, LSE and University of St Andrews.

Hastings emphasises enjoyment of learning from the first day, supporting students to fulfil their academic potential while developing key learning habits: Collaboration, Creativity, Curiosity, Empathy, Reflection, Resilience, Responsibility and Thinking. As part of Cognita, a global network of 90 schools in 21 countries serving more than 100,000 students, the school provides a world-class education tailored to individual needs.

The role

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Early Years practitioner to deliver high-quality education that inspires curiosity, supports individual development and enables every child to reach their full potential within a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment. This is a permanent, full-time position commencing 31 August 2026.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, deliver and evaluate a broad, balanced and differentiated curriculum in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
• Create engaging, play-based learning experiences that promote exploration, active learning and critical thinking.
• Adapt teaching to meet the diverse needs of all learners and foster a positive, well-organised classroom that supports independence and wellbeing.
• Observe, assess and track children’s progress, using assessment data to inform planning and next steps.
• Provide clear, constructive feedback to parents and build positive relationships that support pupils’ personal, social and emotional development.
• Promote positive behaviour in line with school policy and contribute to the wider life of the school.
• Engage in continuous professional development and maintain effective communication with colleagues and families.
• Adhere to all safeguarding policies and procedures, reporting concerns appropriately and maintaining up-to-date training.

Requirements

• Relevant university degree together with a recognised teaching or Early Years qualification.
• Experience of working in an Early Years setting.
• Strong organisational and classroom management skills with the ability to plan engaging and effective learning experiences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, parents and the wider school community.
• Secure understanding of early years pedagogy and a commitment to inclusive education.
• Proactive, enthusiastic approach combined with high levels of professionalism and a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

How to apply

Candidates can apply via TheTeacherJob or request the school contact after signing in. Early applications are encouraged. Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. The school is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.