Early Years Leader

About the School – St Andrews Sathorn

Overview:

St. Andrews International School, Sathorn, is a dynamic and inclusive community dedicated to nurturing academic achievement and holistic growth. We are on the lookout for a skilled and enthusiastic Early Years Leader to enhance our leadership team. This position is crucial in guiding the educational experiences of our youngest students, fostering an environment that encourages curiosity, resilience, and a passion for learning.

We are excited to present an opportunity for an accomplished Early Years Leader to become part of our exceptional team.

About Cognita:

Cognita is a prominent name in independent education worldwide. Established in 2004, we comprise a growing network of over 100 schools across 21 countries—spanning Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East—serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools has its unique identity, yet we share a common goal: to cultivate an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world."

At Cognita, we recognize that each student brings their individuality. We nurture their unique traits and strengths, providing academic, social, and emotional support wherever they are in the world. Our schools, while distinct, benefit from shared knowledge, opportunities, and best practices, ensuring that every child receives a truly world-class education.

Our tailored approach empowers each school, teacher, and student to excel in their unique strengths.

About the Role:

Position Objective

The primary objectives for the Early Years Leader at St Andrews International Schools include:

- Ensuring the effective daily operation of the early years program
- Leading by example, exemplifying our core values of Care, Success, Innovation, and Inclusion
- Quality assuring and advancing the Primary curriculum through exceptional and adaptive teaching and learning
- Fostering relationships with faculty, students, staff, and parents

What you will be doing:

Key Responsibilities:

1. Teaching

- Delivering high-quality teaching practices within the Early Years framework, aligned with the English National Curriculum
- Designing and facilitating engaging learning environments
- Cultivating strong relationships with students, staff, and parents

2. Leadership

- Serving as a positive role model for the entire Sathorn community
- Contributing to the Senior Leadership Team, driving school-wide priorities and continuous improvement
- Overseeing the daily operations of the Early Years program
- Managing Early Years Teachers and Teaching Assistants
- Collaborating with the DSL, LS Coordinator, and KS1 Coordinator to ensure smooth transitions to KS1

3. Communication

- Maintaining consistent communication with parents in the Early Years, utilizing platforms like Seesaw, family-friendly mornings, and newsletters
- Leading the parent engagement initiatives for Early Years, including workshops, coffee mornings, and meetings with parent representatives
- Planning and overseeing larger Early Years events
- Facilitating clear internal communication for staff through regular meetings, weekly notices, and policy updates
- Providing support to parents with escalated issues

4. Professional Development

- Coordinating the induction and training of new Early Years staff
- Leading ongoing professional development for Early Years staff in alignment with the overall school development plan, focusing on high-quality teaching and learning
- Implementing CPD and coaching cycles to enhance teaching and learning in the Early Years

5. Curriculum & Teaching

- Managing and overseeing the Early Years curriculum, leading regular review cycles
- Ensuring appropriate resources for the curriculum
- Collaborating with subject and phase leaders to maintain consistent curriculum delivery
- Partnering with the Head of School to ensure alignment with the school's vision and priorities

6. Operational

- Assisting in the management of staffing and recruitment strategies
- Overseeing budget allocation and management for the Early Years program
- Working with the admissions team to support new students and manage enrollment numbers along with staffing considerations

7. Safeguarding & Pastoral

- Acting as the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) for Early Years, collaborating with the wider Safeguarding team to address any concerns
- Managing significant or ongoing behavioral issues in Early Years alongside the Pastoral Care Coordinator and Head of School
- Ensuring the promotion and safeguarding of children's welfare, adhering to Cognita's Safeguarding and Child Protection policies. Any concerns regarding a child's safety must be reported to the School’s Child Protection Officer or the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Who we are looking for:

Qualifications and Experience:

- A relevant teaching certificate or license
- A minimum of a four-year recognized teaching qualification, including a Bachelor’s Degree and Teaching Diploma or a Bachelor of Education
- Experience in an international school setting is highly desirable
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to multitask and manage time effectively
- Capability to lead and work collaboratively within a team, along with a willingness to engage in broader school events
- Excellent communication skills, multitasking, and time management

Working Conditions:

- Working hours are from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, five days a week
- Attendance at meetings as necessary
- Involvement in school functions, meetings, events, and professional development days, which may occur outside regular hours

Term of Employment:

- Fixed Term
- Full-time position
- Paid leave during designated school holidays
- Paid sick leave and hospitalization leave
- Additional benefits, including relocation assistance, depending on employment terms

Benefits at Cognita:

- Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience
- School and public holiday allowances
- Discount on school fees
- Opportunities for professional development

How to Apply:

Please submit your application before the deadline. The closing date for applications is: 30 April 2026.

Cognita Schools are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers, and other third parties to share this commitment. Our recruitment process includes safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks prior to confirming any appointments.

We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to be better, smarter, and happier, and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds, genders, and races. We are committed to fairness and equity in our recruitment process.

Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview and appoint candidates before the closing date if the right applicant is found.

If you have not heard back from us by the closing date, please assume your application was not successful this time.