Reception Class Teacher

ISC group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - GBP 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic and welcoming school in London is seeking a dedicated Reception Class Teacher for a temporary maternity cover role. The ideal candidate will demonstrate an innovative approach and the ability to foster positive relationships with children and parents. This position offers the chance to join a collaborative community focused on creating an inspiring learning atmosphere. Candidates should submit their applications through the appropriate channels as indicated.

Qualifications

• Innovative approach to teaching with a focus on child development.
• Ability to foster positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Understanding of safeguarding policies and commitment to child protection.

Responsibilities

• Teach and manage a Reception class effectively.
• Collaborate with colleagues to enhance the learning environment.
• Create a supportive atmosphere conducive to learning.

Job description

Thomas’s Clapham is a dynamic and welcoming school where curiosity, creativity and kindness sit at the heart of everything we do. Set between Wandsworth and Clapham Commons, our school is alive with energy, a place where pupils are encouraged to think independently, work collaboratively and approach each day with purpose and joy.

We are proud to be part of the Thomas’s family of schools, educating 644 pupils aged 4 to 13. Our approach is outward‑looking and values‑driven, balancing academic rigour with imagination, character and compassion. Teaching is ambitious and responsive, designed to stretch and support every pupil. Professional development is a central priority, and our recognition as an Apple Distinguished School reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching and learning.

Our facilities are exceptional, blending the heritage of our historic site with contemporary spaces that inspire and delight. Light‑filled classrooms, specialist teaching areas and beautifully designed outdoor environments create a setting where pupils and teachers alike can thrive. We are particularly fortunate to have extensive on‑site grounds, a rare privilege in London, where pupils spill outdoors for play, exploration and sport, making the most of every opportunity to learn actively and collaboratively.

The role

Thomas’s Clapham is seeking a dedicated and inspiring Reception Class Teacher to join our forward‑thinking prep school. This will be a temporary contract to cover a period of maternity leave.

This is a great opportunity for an innovative Reception Class Teacher to join our collaborative community. We are looking for someone who can quickly generate vision, confidence and respect and who is capable of fostering highly positive working relationships with children, parents and colleagues.

The Recruitment Pack should be read alongside the information available on our website.

Please note that referees will be contacted prior to the interview.

Closing Date: 22/02/2026

Interview Date: 04/03/2026

Salary: Competitive salary and conditions are offered

Location: Thomas’s Clapham, Broomwood Rd, London SW11 6JZ

How to Apply

Thomas’s will only accept applications from candidates completing the relevant Application Form in full.

For further details please go to the Thomas’s London Day Schools website: https://www.thomas-s.co.uk/join-our-team or email: [e-mail]

Applications will be considered upon receipt so early application is encouraged. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Safeguarding

Thomas’s London Day Schools are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff, volunteers and visitors to share this commitment and work in accordance with our child protection policies and procedures.

All posts are subject to screening appropriate to the post including checks with past employers and the DBS service. The school will undertake online searches on shortlisted applicants and may require applicants to provide details of their online profile, including social media accounts. For details of the checks which will be undertaken as part of our recruitment process, please see our Safer Recruitment Policy which can be found here https://www.thomas-s.co.uk/policies/ under the ‘Thomas’s Policy’ tab.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.

As an equal opportunities employer, Thomas’s is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity or marriage and civil partnership. Thomas’s aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workspace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join the Group.