Early Years (Preschool) Teacher

ABOUT HYPHA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLHypha International School is located within the stunning Sintra Natural Park and provides a distinctive international education focused on nature, project-based learning, and prioritizing wellbeing, curiosity, and academic success. Our mission is to nurture thoughtful and capable young individuals who embody a strong sense of agency and responsibility.In our Pre-Primary program (ages 3–4), we offer a comprehensive early years experience that incorporates the finest practices from Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and outdoor learning, all while aligning with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). We understand that young children flourish through meaningful relationships, active exploration, and immersive experiences, with nature acting as a vital teacher rather than merely a backdrop.Drawing inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach, we perceive children as capable, curious, and full of potential. We create an environment that values their questions, theories, and interests, where learning becomes evident through careful observation and documentation. Our classrooms and outdoor spaces are meticulously designed to serve as a third teacher, providing a variety of materials, engaging provocations, and open-ended experiences that encourage creativity, communication, and critical thinking.Surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of Sintra, children participate in numerous outdoor activities, which enhance their confidence, resilience, and sense of wonder through intentional play, exploration, and environmental connection. Our methodology lays a strong foundation for early language, literacy (including phonics), numeracy, and social-emotional growth while emphasizing the core elements of early childhood: belonging, movement, and imagination.As we continue to grow, we are in search of an exceptional Pre-Primary teacher who is eager to help shape a high-quality early years program within our ambitious and values-driven school community.THE ROLEWe are looking for a compassionate, reflective, and highly skilled Pre-Primary teacher who:Is dedicated to delivering outstanding early childhood educationUnderstands the importance of structure, consistency, and emotional safetyIs excited about a blended approach that incorporates Reggio, Montessori, and outdoor learning, grounded in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)Champions child-centered learning complemented by intentional adult involvementSees themselves as an integral part of a developing school, contributing beyond their individual classroomYou will manage a Pre-Primary class, crafting responsive learning environments and experiences that nurture children's curiosity and independence, while establishing a solid foundation for learning.WHAT YOU’LL DOCreate a calm, welcoming, and organized learning environment that aligns with EYFS principlesUse observation and documentation (inspired by Reggio) to design learning experiences that reflect children's interests and support their developmentIntegrate Montessori resources and routines to foster independence, coordination, and focusProvide developmentally appropriate early literacy experiences, including engaging and systematic phonics instructionPromote early numeracy through hands-on activities, pattern recognition, counting, and real-life problem-solvingEmbrace outdoor learning as a crucial aspect of the curriculum, enhancing wellbeing, resilience, curiosity, and environmental appreciationSupport social-emotional development with warm, consistent guidance and Positive Discipline strategiesEngage thoughtfully with families to strengthen the home–school connectionCollaborate with colleagues to facilitate the transition from Pre-Primary to Primary as Hypha continues to expandWHO WE’RE LOOKING FORYou would be an ideal candidate for this position if you:Hold a recognized Early Years teaching qualification (QTS, PGCE, EYFS/ECE equivalent, or Apply via the WhatSchool platform.)