Contract jobs in United Kingdom

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, and we 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 KS2 Teacher to join our fantastic team as a full-time maternity cover.

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’.

At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally wherever they are in the world.

St Margaret's Preparatory School is looking for a KS2 Teacher to join our dedicated team and help maintain our beautiful 7‑acre grounds in Gosfield, North Essex.

As a KS2 Teacher, you will teach small classes, delivering engaging lessons that inspire curiosity and a love of learning. Beyond the classroom, you will play an active role in promoting pupils’ wellbeing, supporting their academic and personal development, and contributing to our vibrant school community. Your responsibilities will include planning and preparing lessons, maintaining high standards of behaviour, and providing pastoral care. You will also participate in school events, trips, and extra‑curricular activities, ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and encouraged to achieve their best.

This is a full‑time, fixed‑term Maternity Cover contract. Proposed start date is after the February half-term – 23rd February 2026.

View a full Role Profile.

• You are an enthusiastic and creative teacher with a passion for primary education.
• You have strong classroom management skills, high expectations for achievement and behaviour, and the ability to motivate and inspire pupils.
• You are well‑organised, flexible, and committed to the ethos and values of our school.
• Qualified Teacher Status and experience in a primary or prep setting are essential.
• You have excellent communication skills to build positive relationships with pupils, parents, and colleagues.
• You are a role model who thrives in a collaborative environment and is committed to safeguarding and continuous professional development.

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Enrolment in Teachers' 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
• Ongoing professional development

Complete this application before the closing date: 4th January 2026.

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 are 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 the closing date for the right applicant.