Job Introduction
Lanterns Nursery School is a truly special place. Making a meaningful difference to children and families is in our DNA. As one of only three Headteacher-led Maintained Nursery Schools in Hampshire, we offer a nurturing, high-quality environment where our staff are our number one asset. We are looking for a dedicated professional to join our wonderful, forward-thinking team.
Why Lanterns?
A Culture of Inclusion: Everyone is welcome here. From the age of 8 months, our children naturally embrace diversity and the differences they are surrounded with.
Forward-Thinking and Reflective: We are a learning community. We pride ourselves on being reflective, constantly evolving our practice to ensure we deliver the most up-to-date, high-impact early years experiences.
A Supportive Team: You will work alongside some of the most amazing, determined, and passionate people in the sector. We recognise that looking after each other is what enables us to do our best work for our children.
Professional Growth: We provide a thorough induction and fantastic opportunities to expand your skills in specialist areas like Makaton, communication visuals, and trauma-informed practice.
The Role: Impact and Connection
As an EYP at Lanterns, you will be a key part of our vibrant classroom teams:
Key Person Excellence: You will be responsible for a group of key children, getting to know them deeply and adapting the curriculum to reflect their unique interests and developmental stages.
Inclusive Practice: You will use a range of creative strategies to ensure every child can access an exciting and appropriate curriculum.
Child-Led Learning: Work with the team to plan and implement an inspiring curriculum that flows between our indoor and outdoor learning spaces.
Problem Solving: You’ll think on your feet, share fresh ideas, and work collaboratively to find solutions that help our children flourish.
What You’ll Bring
Experience and Passion: A solid background in a school or early years setting and a genuine love for educating young children.
A Playful Initiative: You are motivated, playful, and able to use your own initiative to engage and inspire.
Strong Communication: An open mind and the ability to work effectively within a large, diverse, and forward-thinking team.
Reflective Practice: An active interest in professional development and a desire to grow your skills within our specialist setting.
What We Can Offer You
Permanent Contract: Security in a well-established, Outstanding setting.
Flexible Working: While we prefer full-time (37 hours), we are happy to consider part-time applicants who can commit to full working days (e.g., 3 days per week).
Hampshire County Council Benefits: As a local authority employee, you will benefit from:
Competitive pay conditions and the Local Government Pension Scheme.
Family-friendly policies and term-time only working.
Access to the Employee Support Hub, including confidential counselling and health advice.
Staff discounts via the Kaarp scheme.
Bespoke Training: Exceptional CPD including the "Lanterns Approach," sensory processing, and more.
Key Dates
Closing Date: Wednesday 18th March 2026
Interview Date(s): Monday 23rd March 2026
Start Date: To be agreed
Ready to see what makes us different? Check out our website or come and visit.
Applications are reviewed upon receipt, and we will contact successful candidates for interview ASAP.
Application Procedure
For more information and to request an application pack please contact adminoffice@lanterns.hants.sch.uk or call our friendly administrative team on 01962 860393.
We review applications as they are submitted and reserve the right to close this advert and/or interview at any time, therefore, we would encourage you to apply as soon as possible if you are interested in this role.
Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.
