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7 Tips For Educators Seeking New Job Opportunities

 

 

Whether you’re a newly qualified practitioner or an experienced early years educator ready for a new challenge, the job search can feel both exciting and daunting. With the right preparation and professional mindset, you can find a role that not only suits your skills but also aligns with your values and passion for child development.

This guide is designed to help you approach your job search strategically, from refining your CV to presenting your best self during interviews.

 

 

1. Self-Reflection: Knowing What You Want

Before updating your CV or browsing job boards, take time to reflect on what you’re looking for:

  • What age group do you most enjoy working with?
  • Are you seeking a setting that follows a particular pedagogy (Montessori, Reggio, EYFS)?
  • What leadership style do you work best under?
  • Are you looking for growth opportunities, better work-life balance, or a new environment?

Knowing your priorities helps you target the right settings and avoid applying for roles that don’t fit.

2. Updating Your Professional Documents

Your CV and cover letter are your first impression. Make them count:

  • Keep your CV clear, no longer than two pages
  • Tailor your experience to match the job description
  • Highlight measurable outcomes (e.g., “led a classroom of 20 children with diverse needs,” or “increased parent satisfaction scores by 30%”)
  • Use action verbs: facilitated, supported, implemented, mentored
  • Ensure your qualifications and safeguarding training are up to date

Don’t forget your professional portfolio includes:

  • Examples of planning and observations
  • Child progress tracking
  • Evidence of safeguarding knowledge
  • Continuous Professional Development (CPD) certificates

3. Your Online Presence Matters

More settings are reviewing social media and LinkedIn profiles before interviews. Ensure your digital footprint reflects your professionalism:

  • Update your LinkedIn headline (e.g., “Experienced Early Years Educator | EYFS & Inclusion Specialist | Child-Led Learning Advocate”)
  • Share posts or comments that show you’re engaged in the early years community

4. Presentation and First Impressions

When attending interviews or open days:

  • Dress smartly but comfortably (business casual is usually appropriate)
  • Arrive 10–15 minutes early
  • Bring a printed CV and your portfolio
  • Be polite to everyone, from the receptionist to the leadership team

5. The Interview Process: Be Ready, Be Real

Expect a mix of formal questions, scenario-based questions, and sometimes practical tasks or trial sessions. Prepare by revisiting key areas:

Common Interview Questions:

  • Why did you choose early years education?
  • How do you handle challenging behaviour?
  • How do you ensure safeguarding in your daily practice?
  • Describe how you plan and assess learning
  • How do you build relationships with parents?

Scenario-Based Questions:

  • A child arrives visibly upset and doesn’t want to separate from their parent — what do you do?
  • You suspect a colleague is not following safety protocols — how do you respond?

Top Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

Trial Sessions: If invited for a trial, be proactive, engaging, and use warm body language. Observe, connect with children, and ask questions.

6. Questions You Should Ask

Remember, you’re interviewing them too. Ask questions that show your professionalism:

  • What does your induction and training programme look like?
  • How do you support staff wellbeing?
  • What are the expectations around planning and observations?
  • Can you tell me about your safeguarding and supervision policy?
7. After the Interview: Follow-Up and Decision Making

Send a short thank-you email within 24 hours to express appreciation and reiterate your interest. Reflect on:

  • Did you feel welcomed and respected?
  • Does the role align with your values?
  • Will the setting support your growth?
Looking for a new job is more than securing a contract, it’s about finding a professional home. Don’t rush the process. Trust your instincts, do your homework and know your worth.

And remember, Think Nursery offers resources and networking opportunities to help early years educators thrive at every stage of their career. Join today: Think Nursery Community

Today Whether you’re just starting or stepping into leadership, the right opportunity is out there. You’ve got this!

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