Reception Class Teacher

- Thurlow CE VC Primary School (Hundon and Thurlow Primary Federation)
- Address: Pound Green, Thurlow, Haverhill CB9 7HY
- Salary: MPR
- Hours: Full time
- Contract: Maternity cover, required from 1 January 2027
- Reference: 5583.

Hundon and Thurlow Primary Federation are looking for an engaging, committed and inspirational Reception Class Teacher to join our team for maternity cover.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about the Early Years and who understands the importance of providing children with the very best possible start to their school journey. You will be joining a welcoming, family-focused school community where children's individual needs, interests, wellbeing and development are at the heart of everything we do.

You will:

- be passionate about teaching and learning, with a particular enthusiasm for working with children in the Early Years
- be an outstanding or highly effective practitioner with a secure understanding of the EYFS and the characteristics of effective teaching and learning
- create a warm, nurturing and stimulating reception environment where children feel safe, valued and confident to learn
- provide creative, inspiring and enriching learning opportunities, making excellent use of both adult-led and child-initiated learning;
- have high expectations for all children and support them to develop independence, resilience, curiosity and a love of learning
- understand the importance of strong relationships, communication and language development and the development of social and emotional skills
- use observation and assessment effectively to understand children's starting points, identify next steps and ensure that provision meets individual needs
- work closely with parents and families to build positive relationships and ensure strong communication between home and school
- work collaboratively with colleagues and our experienced Learning Support Assistants to provide a consistent and inclusive approach
- contribute to the wider life of the school and Federation, including taking responsibility for a curriculum subject where appropriate
- uphold the strong caring ethos and inclusive environments of both our schools, placing children's emotional health and wellbeing at the centre
- be committed to your own professional development and actively seek opportunities to extend your knowledge and skills.

In return, we offer:

- the opportunity to teach in an idyllic setting within a unique, small, family-focused Federation, comprising two successful, self-governing primary schools working closely in partnership
- engaged, creative and enthusiastic Reception children who are excited to learn and take pride in their school
- a nurturing, inclusive and collaborative approach
- a small-scale, personalised approach to learning, enabling us to know our children exceptionally well
- an experienced partner teacher with whom to collaborate, plan and share workload
- dedicated Learning Support Assistant support within the class
- a well-resourced and stimulating Early Years environment
- flexible working, with PPA provided as one whole day every other week, which can be taken off-site/at home
- regular, timetabled leadership release time, which can be taken off-site/at home
- a talented, highly motivated, committed and friendly team of colleagues who are passionate about improving outcomes for our pupils
- an inclusive Federation with high standards of attainment, progress and behaviour
- an engaged and supportive governing body
- a strong commitment to professional development and staff wellbeing
- a paid personal day annual allowance.

We are proud of the warm, welcoming and supportive communities we have created across our two schools and would love to welcome someone who shares our commitment to giving every child the best possible start.

For more information

Visits are warmly welcomed and encouraged. To arrange a visit or for an informal discussion about the role, please contact Sharon FitzGerald , Executive Headteacher.

Tel: 01440 783281 / 01440 786217

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

How to apply

Please read the job description (Word) and Application Guidance for School Teachers (Word)

Please complete the Application Form for School Teachers (Word) and email it to: [email protected]

Closing date: 12.00 pm, 19 October2026.

Interview date: 22 October 2026.

Promoted as JOTW (Job of the Week) on Suffolk Jobs Direct.