Job Description

Full-Time | Permanent | Term-time only

About the School - St. Margaret's Prep School

At St. Margaret's our children are happy, curious and kind. They thrive in our beautiful, countryside school, where we prioritise a holistic education, fostering character development alongside academic excellence. Our school runs from ages 2 through to 11 years old, we will support every child through every stage of their education.



Whilst academic achievement is high, so is our focus on wellbeing, as we know that happy children are high achieving children. We nurture our pupils and develop the characteristics and qualities we know they will need to build bright futures. We ensure they are fully prepared for the next steps in life, both in the classroom and beyond.



The school now has an exciting opportunity for a

Nursery Practitioner with KS1 experience

to join our fantastic team.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, 'Thrive in a rapidly evolving world'.

About the role

St Margaret's Preparatory School is looking for a Nursery Practitioner with KS1 experience to join our dedicated team and help maintain our beautiful 7-acre grounds in Gosfield, North Essex. In this role, you will play a key role in nurturing and supporting our youngest learners within our purpose-built nursery and early years setting. You'll work closely with teaching staff to create a warm, stimulating environment that supports both academic and personal development. From delivering creative activities to attending to pupils' individual needs, your role will be varied, hands-on, and deeply rewarding.

This is a permanent role needed full-time during term-time only, with an additional requirement to attend 5 INSET days.

Who we are looking for

You are caring, energetic, and passionate about early childhood education. With a CACHE Level 5 qualification and a solid understanding of the EYFS framework, you bring both expertise and enthusiasm to everything you do. You're confident supporting individual and group learning, managing routines, and promoting positive behaviour. You value inclusion and have a natural ability to build strong, respectful relationships with children, colleagues, and parents alike. You're proactive, organised, and keen to contribute to the wider life of the school. Most importantly, you are committed to safeguarding and to helping every child thrive.

Benefits at Cognita

Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience Pension Scheme Free lunch provided during Term Time School holidays and public holidays Free parking on site (subject to availability) School fee discount Exclusive third-party discounts Professional Development

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is:

Sunday 23rd November 2025

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.



We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.



Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.