Westminster Under School is looking for a founding Head of Pre-Prep to assist with the establishment of a new Co-Ed Pre-Prep Department which will launch in September 2026.
This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an exceptional candidate to be at the forefront of change during this significant time in the School’s history. The School is seeking an inspirational practitioner who is able to lead on all aspects of the department, including teaching, curriculum design, the curation of resources, planning and assessment. As a passionate advocate for the importance of the early years in a whole-school setting, they will be responsible for creating an outstanding learning department that will be designed to provide exploration and challenge in a warm, productive environment.
The founding Pre-Prep Head will have the 2025–2026 academic year to establish these practices, create policies and assist with staff and pupil recruitment. Once opened with the first two Reception classes, they will also be responsible for teaching a Reception class and for Pre-Prep safeguarding. Utilising their strong communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills, they will be able to formulate key ideas and present them clearly to the Master, SMT and Governing Body.
The Pre-Prep Department
The new Pre-Prep Department will cultivate a love of learning both through formal and child-initiated activities. There will be plenty of time for opportunities to explore the outdoors, both on the new play balcony and on Vincent Square, the 13-acre private playing field. High-quality adult interactions will prepare the children for a stimulating and world-class education in Reception and beyond.
About Westminster Under School
Westminster Under School is a great environment for happy and purposeful children and for all the staff who support them. The School’s aim is to produce well-rounded individuals with a love of learning and an enthusiasm for life who relish coming into School each day. All members of staff play an important role in ensuring that day-to-day processes at the School run smoothly and, in turn, helping each and every pupil to enjoy and benefit from all that the School has to offer.
A generous salary will be offered to reflect the importance of the post and the experience and qualifications of the individual appointed. There is also an associated responsibility allowance related to this role.
Potential candidates who would like a confidential initial conversation about this role should contact one of the RSAcademics search consultants working on this project:
* Jenny Funnell, Search Consultant: jennyfunnell@rsacademics.com
* Diana Watkins, Senior Advisor: dianawatkins@rsacademics.com
Further information and details of how to apply can be found on the RSAcademics website at:
Closing date: 10.00am on Monday 24th February 2025.
Preliminary interviews with RSAcademics: Thursday 27th/Friday 28th February 2025 (remote).
Longlist interviews: w/c 10th March 2025.
Westminster Under School is an equal opportunities employer. We therefore encourage candidates to apply irrespective of age, disability, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion and belief, gender identity, sex or sexual orientation.
Westminster Under School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Any offer of employment is subject to satisfactory references, social media vetting and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.
Safer recruitment checks will be made at all stages in the recruitment process.
RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.