Job Description

About the School - Little Downsend, Leatherhead:
Little Downsend Leatherhead, located just a 5 minute walk from the Junior and Senior School, possesses its own special character, with large bright, well equipped classrooms, brimming with interactive activities. Little Downsend Leatherhead has the largest outdoor area of the three schools, with over an acre of garden space including playgrounds, astro turfed sports area and a magnificent forest school zone.

At each of our Little Downsend schools, we instil the same nurture, innovation, love of life, dynamic energy and high standards, supported by experienced and passionate teachers.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Class Teacher to join our fantastic team.

About Cognita:
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 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, wherever they’re starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.

We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of 90 schools in 21 countries, ensuring every child gets an education that’s, quite literally, world class.

It’s an individual approach that empowers every school, teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.

About the Role:
As a Teacher at Little Downsend Leatherhead, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the early learning experiences of our youngest pupils. You’ll be responsible for creating a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment where each child can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. Working closely with the Head of Little Downsend and the wider leadership team, you’ll plan and deliver engaging lessons aligned with EYFS principles, track and report on pupil progress, and maintain strong relationships with parents. Beyond the classroom, you'll contribute to the wider life of the school through events, pastoral care, and team collaboration. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic, supportive early years setting within a leading independent school.

This is a full-time, fixed-term contract needed from 1 September 2026 until 31 August 2027.

To view our Role Profile, click here

Who We Are Looking For:
You are a passionate and qualified EYFS educator with a deep understanding of early childhood development and the unique needs of young learners. You bring creativity, structure, and warmth to your classroom, and can confidently lead teaching assistants and work collaboratively with colleagues. Strong communication skills, a proactive attitude, and a commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing are essential. If you're enthusiastic about helping children develop a lifelong love of learning in a vibrant school community, we’d love to hear from you.

Benefits at Cognita:
•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

How to Apply:
Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 5th July 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 is 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 closing date for the right applicant.