Head of Kinderhaus (Head of Early Years)

Job summary

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Head of Early Years Education/ Head of Kinderhaus to join our international Kinderhaus team.
The Head of Kinderhaus provides strategic and operational leadership for the early years provision (ages 1–6) across two sites: Deutsche Schule London and Sudbrook School. The role is responsible for the effective delivery, development and management of a high-quality bilingual early years programme.
The position ensures consistent educational standards in line with regulatory frameworks, including German school guidelines and the UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Reporting to the Head of School and working closely with the Director of Sudbrook School, the role contributes to the overall strategic direction of the organisation.

About the Kinderhaus: 
The Kinderhaus comprises both the DSL Kinderhaus facilities (for children aged 3–6) and those of Sudbrook School (for children aged 1–4).
Each group is always supported by two educators, with one educator speaking German while the other communicates in English to foster the bi-lingual abilities in early childhood.
A dedicated courtyard and a spacious playground, including a small woodland area, provide excellent opportunities for outdoor play and for exploring the surrounding natural environment. The focus is on individual play and learning, enriched by shared experiences within a bilingual setting.

About DSL:
The German School London / Deutsche Schule London (DSL) is part of a long-standing tradition of excellence in the world-wide network of more than 136 German schools abroad which are accredited and supported by the Federal Republic of Germany. With approximately 180 permanent staff we offer a first-class education in an international, friendly school community to almost 900 students representing more than 50 nations. Within this community we promote individual learning and critical thinking, opening the doors to excellent training and career opportunities in the UK, Germany, Europe and around the world.
The DSL provides a distinguished educational programme from Kindergarten to Abitur with a specific emphasis on German language and culture in a bi-lingual environment. DSL is double-rated by both Ofsted and the German BLI (Bund-La?nder-Inspektion) and was awarded an “Outstanding” as well as an “Exzellente Deutsche Auslandsschule“ rating in the recent inspections in 2025.
Set within beautiful and spacious grounds by the River Thames, the school provides a truly exceptional setting that supports the wellbeing, creativity and success of both staff and pupils.

The position:
We are looking for: 

• degree or equivalent in Early Childhood Education, Social Sciences or related field (Level 4/5, EYTS or QTS preferred) 
• fluent in English (written and spoken)
• German would be a significant advantage
•  5 – 10 years experience in early years education 
• Excellent organisational, communication and leadership skills
• Ability to motivate teams and work effectively under pressure
• Safeguarding training (Level 3)
• At least 2 years leadership experience (team management, planning, budgeting) 
• Strong knowledge of child development, EYFS and German early years standards

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Kinderhaus, including staffing, scheduling and budget management
•  Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations (EYFS, safeguarding, health & safety, German school standards)
• Maintain a high-quality, inspiring and nurturing learning environment
•  Oversee curriculum development and support effective teaching and learning • Monitor children’s progress and ensure appropriate support for individual needs
•  Work closely with SENCo and specialists to support children with additional needs
• Build strong relationships with parents through regular communication and meetings
• Recruit, develop and manage staff, including training and performance reviews
• Foster a collaborative team culture and ensure smooth operations across both sites
•  Represent the school to prospective families, including tours and admissions processes
• Lead and support events (e.g. open days, school events)
• Contribute to the senior leadership team and strategic planning
• Balance educational excellence with commercial awareness to support sustainable operations

Personal Attributes:

• Passion for early childhood education and child development
•  Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset
•  Flexible, proactive and solution-oriented
• Commercial awareness alongside educational focus
• Willingness to contribute beyond core responsibilities
• Open, approachable and adaptable

Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your wellbeing and career growth, including paid annual leave, enhanced sick pay, professional development support and career progression opportunities, employee discount schemes, an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), on-site staff canteen with subsidised meals, free parking, a competitive pension scheme, long service awards, and regular company events and team-building activities.