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Reception Teacher Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated 5 November 2025
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Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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7 min read

A Reception Teacher, or Nursery Teacher helps to nurture and develop a child’s abilities, knowledge and social skills. Their primary duties include developing and implementing work schemes and lessons and organising and facilitating work and play activities.

Reception Teacher duties and responsibilities

Reception Teachers spend their classes preparing their children for the world by teaching basic social and academic skills. Generally, their duties include:

  • Engaging and encouraging learners to use their language skills
  • Monitoring students’ playtime and physical activities
  • Documenting student development and progress to share with parents
  • Encouraging creativity in pupils by organising art and craft projects daily
  • Introducing interactive activities into the classroom and encouraging students to voice their questions and concerns
  • Helping children understand key concepts such as numbers, reading, writing and science
  • Attending staff meeting and training

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Reception Teacher Job Description Examples:

Example 1

I am working with a beautiful independent school based in the Reading area.

Having worked with the school for a number of years, I can confirm without hesitation, this is a forward thinking school with a wonderful, supportive SLT in place.

The school are seeking a passionate EYFS teacher to join them on a full time basis from September. The post is available due to relocation of the current Reception teacher.

The successful candidate will have a class size of up to 16 and previous Independent school experience is not a necessity.

If you are looking for your next career move, please get in touch immediately as the Headteacher is looking to recruit this week.

Unfortunately the school are not in a position to take on ECT's for this particular role.

Requirements
  • QTS
  • Extensive EYFS knowledge
  • 1 year minimum, UK teaching experience

Benefits
  • Small class size
  • Lovely working environment
  • Independent setting

If you are interested please get in touch immediately.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £27,600.00-£32,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • On-site parking
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Reading, Berkshire: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):
  • Do you have 1 year (required)

Example 2

EYFS Lead – Nursery Teacher / Reception Teacher + TLR – September 2022

An Outstanding Primary School on the Bromley/Lewisham border are seeking an EYFS Lead to join them in September, on a full time and permanent basis. The school is impeccably well resourced and can offer the successful EYFS Lead large classrooms, brilliant support staff, brand new resources, and inspiring leadership.

EYFS children learn through a range of play based opportunities as well as teacher & support staff led independent activities. The school focuses heavily on promoting independence, confidence, determination and communication amongst their diverse, multi-cultural cohort of children.

Read full details of this EYFS Lead position before applying:

· Outstanding Primary School

· 2 form entry

· Brilliant resources and equipment

· Inspirational leadership team

· EYFS Lead with TLR 2B (£4500)

· Nursery or Reception Teacher – flexibility

· Outer London Payscale but competitive salary options available

· Permanent school contract

· Free parking on site

Interested in this EYFS Lead – Nursery Teacher / Reception Teacher + TLR position? Apply today and you will be contacted within 24hrs to discuss the role and school.

EdEx are a permanent recruitment specialist. If this role/school is not what you’re looking for, we are confident we can find the right fit for any experienced EYFS teacher.

EYFS Lead – Nursery Teacher / Reception Teacher + TLR – September 2022

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £35,800.00-£54,859.00 per year

Schedule:
  • Monday to start date: 05/09/2022

Example 3

Reception Class Teacher, Permanent Contract

ECT welcome to apply

A primary school in Swindon is seeking a dedicated and passionate Reception Class Teacher to join their team on a permanent contract, commencing in September.

This primary school is known for its commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. The staff members work collaboratively to ensure the best possible education for their students. With a strong emphasis on high-quality teaching, the school aims to foster a love for learning in every child.

As a Reception Class Teacher, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the early educational experiences of the students. They will be responsible for planning and delivering engaging lessons that cater to the individual needs and abilities of each child in the class. Creating a positive and stimulating learning environment that promotes curiosity, independence, and a love for learning will be a key focus.

The Reception Class Teacher will be expected to develop age-appropriate curriculum and resources in line with the school's policies and national standards. Regular assessment and monitoring of student progress, along with providing constructive feedback, will be essential in supporting their development. Collaboration with other teachers and support staff is encouraged to create a cohesive and effective learning community.

This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated and enthusiastic teacher to contribute to the growth and development of young learners in a supportive and collaborative school environment.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Salary: £28,000.00-£43,685.00 per year

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Work Location: In ID: Mlrecepteacher

Example 4

An opportunity awaits two outstanding teachers for a primary school located in Notting Hill. Our client is seeking a Reception teacher for a September start. Nurture Education can support high quality candidates in applying for this role!

- Are you interested in securing a role at an ambitious primary school?

- Do you want the opportunity to develop professionally and further your career?

- Don’t want the hassle and stress of finding the right role for you?

--- Apply now to be considered ---

The Candidates: Primary Teacher

Nurture Education are seeking talented Primary Teachers who have a passion for education. You will need to be committed to following the school’s policy and ethos, whilst making a positive difference to children’s lives. You will also need to have:
  • Qualified Primary Teachers with a minimum of 2 years UK experience
  • QTS required
  • Enhanced DBS certificate
  • Passionate & committed
  • Excellent subject knowledge
  • Creative approach to teaching & learning
  • Team player - adaptable & positive individuals required

Benefits:
  • A competitive salary
  • Outstanding school
  • Supportive, nurturing working environment

Interviews and lesson observations to take place ASAP. Don’t miss your opportunity.

The post holder must promote and safeguard the welfare of the children and young people that they are responsible for or come into contact with.

Nurture Education is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £23,000.00-£45,000.00 per year

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Application deadline: 25/06/2022
Reference ID: Notting Hill start date: 01/09/2022

Example 5

Reception Teacher



· £160 - £180/day

· ‘Outstanding’ school

· Dedicated Consultant

· Social and supportive work environment

*The School: Reception Teacher

This West London primary school is seeking a Reception Teacher for. This school strives to provide the highest possible standards of education for all its students, recognising the value and uniqueness of everyone. They are a catholic school which aims to provide a safe place, where each and every student is nurtured to become capable, independent learners and tolerant, kind, thoughtful young people.

The Role: Recpetion Teacher

  • Year 1 teacher – KS1
  • Full Time
  • Vacancy due to maternity cover
  • Fantastic opportunity for a teacher looking to ‘make a difference’!
  • Excellent CPD on offer!
  • Work within a talented KS1 team
  • Support and mentoring
  • High pay rates



*The Candidate: Reception Teacher

· NQT’s and FQT’s and Overseas Trained Teachers

· Passionate & committed teachers wanted!

· Excellent subject knowledge & creative approach to teaching & learning

· Team player – adaptable & positive individuals required!

· High aspirations for all children & desire to raise standards

· Highly motivated and supportive teacher

++ Apply NOW and see what options we can provide for you!

Nurture Education is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £160.00-£170.00 per day



Work authorisation:
  • United Kingdom Location: In person

Example 6

Part-Time Reception Teacher (Monday-Wednesday)- Wigan

Location: Wigan

Are you an enthusiastic and dedicated Reception Teacher with a passion for nurturing young minds? Empowering Learning is excited to be assisting a primary school in Wigan in their search for a dynamic Part-Time Reception Teacher to join their welcoming team. This position, which runs from Monday to Wednesday, offers a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the early educational journey of our students.

Key Requirements:

  • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):Essential for this role, you should hold a recognized teaching qualification to be considered.
  • Experience: Prior experience working in early years education or Reception classes is essential.
  • Passion: A genuine passion for teaching young children and helping them develop essential skills and a love for learning.
  • Commitment: Dedication to creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their potential.
  • Team Player: Ability to collaborate effectively with fellow educators, parents, and the school community.

Responsibilities:

  • Plan and deliver engaging lessons that align with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.
  • Create a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment that promotes positive behaviour and a love for learning.
  • Assess and track student progress, providing timely feedback to parents and caregivers.
  • Collaborate with other teachers and school staff to enhance the overall educational experience for students.
  • Maintain open communication with parents, addressing any concerns or queries in a professional manner.
  • Participate in school events, meetings, and training as required.

How to Apply: To apply for this exciting Part-Time Reception Teacher position, please submit your up-to-date CV. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary contract, Fixed term contract, Temp to perm

Salary: £110.00-£160.00 per day

Schedule:
  • Day shift
School type:
  • Primary school



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Wigan: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:
  • A-Level or equivalent (preferred)

Licence/Certification:
  • QTS Location: In person

Example 7

Reception Teacher - Primary School

Are you a dedicated and experienced Reception Teacher? A wonderful Primary school in Acton is currently looking for a loving Reception Teacher to join full-time their friendly and most attentive team from September.

The school:

  • A welcoming, inclusive and growing learning community based in Acton, Ealing
  • Provides a happy, safe and stimulating learning environment
  • Encourages every member to reach their full potential both academically and personally
  • Fosters a life-long love for learning and offers an exciting, tailored curriculum
  • Proud of their dedicated and professional team

The role:
  • Reception Teacher to support children in Reception class
  • To provide high quality teaching and learning within the EYFS curriculum
  • To enable inspirational and creative learning in a safe and nurturing environment
  • To motivate students to advance their learning and collaborate as a team
  • To contribute to the students' growth and development

Requirements:
  • Recent experience working with children in a school environment
  • Newly Qualified Teachers (ECT) or Qualified Teachers
  • Available to work 08:30 to 16:00, Monday to Friday
  • Must be Available FROM September to work as a Reception Teacher
  • Already have or willing to apply for a Child Only enhanced DBS
  • A responsible and enthusiastic individual

Why Register with Envision Education:
  • Specialists in securing long term and permanent placements for Teachers and a range of support staff
  • Able to find jobs that meet your preferences whether that be location, type of job, pay expectations etc
  • Quick and efficient registration process / Interview via zoom currently
  • Excellent track record in securing jobs quickly and efficiently for professionals in Education
  • Friendly team who always have their job seekers' interests at heart
  • Rated 4.9 out of 5 on google!
  • Free CPD courses worth £144.50 once cleared to work
  • We work with primary, secondary and SEN Schools across London and the Home Counties

Please apply with your full up to date CV asap!

Pay rate is dependent on qualifications, experience and skills.

Envision Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Envision Education is also committed to following a policy of equal opportunities.

We respect and value cultural and religious diversity and will not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, religion, race, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, culture or disability.

You must be a UK resident or hold a full UK visa and be willing to complete a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary contract
Contract length: 12 months

Salary: £120.00-£170.00 per day

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Acton: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Experience:
  • Nursery: 1 year (preferred)
  • Childcare: 1 year 1 year (preferred)

Example 8

Job Description: Reception Teacher

Location: Stevenage, Hertfordshire
Position: Reception Teacher
Contract Type: Full-Time
Daily Rate: From £140 to £180 per day
Start Date: ASAP

Overview:

We are currently seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Reception Teacher to join our friendly and supportive team in Stevenage. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in providing a stimulating and nurturing learning environment for our early years students. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about early childhood education to make a significant impact on our young learners' development.

Responsibilities:
  • Plan, prepare and deliver engaging and differentiated lessons that cater to the needs of all students within the reception class.
  • Use creative and effective teaching methods to stimulate learning and encourage children’s development across the early years foundation stage (EYFS) framework.
  • Carry out assessments of children's learning and development and maintain accurate and up-to-date records.
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with parents, guardians, and carers, including regular communication about their child’s progress.
  • Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment where children feel valued and inspired to learn.
  • Participate in school meetings, events, and ongoing professional development activities.

Qualifications:
  • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS).
  • Experience working with early years foundation stage (EYFS) children is desirable.
  • Strong understanding of the EYFS curriculum and child development.
  • Excellent classroom management skills and the ability to foster a positive learning environment.
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development and learning.
  • An enhanced DBS check registered with the online update service, or willingness to obtain one.

FAQs:

Q: Is there support available for newly qualified teachers (NQTs)?
A: Yes, NQTs will receive comprehensive support from experienced mentors, including guidance on lesson planning, classroom management, and professional development.

Q: Can experienced teachers without QTS apply?
A: Ideally, applicants should have QTS or EYTS. However, experienced educators with a strong background in early years education are encouraged to apply, as further training or qualification support may be considered.

Q: What are the school hours?
A: School hours are typically from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, but specific timetables and duties may vary. Further details will be discussed during the interview process.

Q: How can I apply?
A: Please submit your CV, cover letter, and any relevant certifications. Your cover letter should highlight your experience with the EYFS framework and your approach to fostering a nurturing and creative learning environment.

Q: What is the selection process?
A: The selection process will include a review of applications, an interview, and a teaching demonstration. Successful candidates will be contacted to arrange an interview.

This Reception Teacher role is an excellent opportunity for a dynamic and passionate educator to contribute to the foundational stage of children’s education. If you are committed to inspiring young minds and providing high-quality early years education, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £140.00-£180.00 per day

Benefits:
  • Company pension
  • On-site parking



Application question(s):
  • Do you live within the United Kingdom?

Education:
  • GCSE or equivalent (preferred)

Experience:
  • Reception Teaching: 1 year (preferred)

Language:
  • English (required)

Licence/Certification:
  • Driving Licence (preferred)
  • Qualified Teaching Status (QTS) (required)

Work authorisation:
  • United Kingdom (required)


Work Location: In ID: Reception Teacher - Stevenage
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What does a Reception Teacher do?

A Reception Teacher is responsible for the educational, social and emotional development of children aged between three and five years old. Their job is to ensure children gain literacy and numeracy skills before going to primary school. Their day-to-day duties can vary from developing interactive learning programmes that are fun and educational for young children, to managing classroom activities including bathroom breaks, meals and rest times. A Reception Teacher also creates a conducive environment for learning. From time to time, the Reception Teacher communicates with parents to discuss their children’s progress and educational and developmental needs.

Reception Teacher skills and qualifications

Reception Teachers must have a creative flair and imagination coupled with sincere enthusiasm and dedication to student development. A successful Reception Teacher will have various critical prerequisite skills and qualifications that include:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Listening skills
  • The ability to enthuse and motivate young children
  • A great sense of humour and ability to keep things in perspective
  • Exceptional planning and organisational skills
  • Ability to work independently
  • Leadership skills

Reception Teacher experience requirements

Reception Teachers must have previous experience working with children in a school or daycare set up. Other relevant experience includes volunteering at a playgroup or any other work that allows them to provide care and support to children’s development.

Reception Teacher education and training requirements

A Reception Teacher position typically requires a bachelor’s degree in childhood studies or early childhood development (with GCSE passes in science, English and maths). Reception Teachers also need to complete a course to earn Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), which allows them to become a fully qualified Reception Teacher. They also need to pass a numeracy and literacy test and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, before getting started. Reception Teachers are required to maintain their certification through professional development training and continuing education courses. This

Reception Teacher salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of a Reception Teacher in the UK is .Their actual salary varies depending on factors, including their level of expertise, experience, qualifications and their employer.

No salary date could be found on indeed.com/uk/salaries

Job description samples for similar positions

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