Early Years (Preschool) Teacher

ABOUT HYPHA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Hypha 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 ROLE

We are looking for a compassionate, reflective, and highly skilled Pre-Primary teacher who:

• Is dedicated to delivering outstanding early childhood education
• Understands the importance of structure, consistency, and emotional safety
• Is 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 involvement
• Sees themselves as an integral part of a developing school, contributing beyond their individual classroom

You 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 DO

• Create a calm, welcoming, and organized learning environment that aligns with EYFS principles
• Use observation and documentation (inspired by Reggio) to design learning experiences that reflect children's interests and support their development
• Integrate Montessori resources and routines to foster independence, coordination, and focus
• Provide developmentally appropriate early literacy experiences, including engaging and systematic phonics instruction
• Promote early numeracy through hands-on activities, pattern recognition, counting, and real-life problem-solving
• Embrace outdoor learning as a crucial aspect of the curriculum, enhancing wellbeing, resilience, curiosity, and environmental appreciation
• Support social-emotional development with warm, consistent guidance and Positive Discipline strategies
• Engage thoughtfully with families to strengthen the home–school connection
• Collaborate with colleagues to facilitate the transition from Pre-Primary to Primary as Hypha continues to expand

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

You would be an ideal candidate for this position if you:

• Hold a recognized Early Years teaching qualification (QTS, PGCE, EYFS/ECE equivalent, or similar)
• Have experience teaching children aged 3–5, with international experience being advantageous
• Possess a thorough understanding of the EYFS and how to implement it through meaningful, developmentally appropriate practices
• Are confident in teaching foundational early literacy skills, including phonological awareness and early phonics, in an age-appropriate manner
• Know how to balance child-led learning with established routines, boundaries, and purposeful adult guidance
• Value professionalism, thorough preparation, and a deep understanding of pedagogy
• Are reflective, open to feedback, and committed to ongoing personal and professional growth
• Are inspired by nature-based education and enthusiastic about teaching outdoors year-round
• Communicate clearly and warmly with children, colleagues, and families, believing in the importance of fostering a strong home–school partnership