Phase Leader, Phonics and Early Reading Lead

Contract: Permanent

Salary: MPS/UPS + TLR2b

Start Date: 1st January 2027 or anytime earlier from 1st September if possible

About The Role

Due to the promotion and relocation of our current Phonics Lead, Clifton Primary School is seeking an enthusiastic, ambitious and highly motivated teacher to join our team as KS1 Phase Leader and Phonics & Early Reading Lead. Initially, the successful candidate will teach in Year 1.

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled classroom practitioner who is passionate about early education and ready to take the next step in leadership. The KS1 Phase Leader aspect of the role is new to Clifton, meaning the successful candidate will have the opportunity to help shape and develop leadership within Key Stage 1, working closely with senior leaders to make a lasting impact.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about ensuring every child gets the very best start to their reading journey and who can inspire both pupils and colleagues through excellent practice, strong relationships and a collaborative approach.

The successful candidate will lead phonics and early reading across the school, supporting high-quality teaching and learning from Nursery through to Key Stage 2. They will work closely with our Early Years team to ensure a smooth and successful transition from Reception into Year 1, while also supporting staff in developing effective reading provision and intervention for older pupils who require additional support with phonics and early reading.

At Clifton, we use the Read Write Inc. phonics programme. We would welcome applications from candidates with experience of Read Write Inc., as well as strong practitioners with experience of other phonics schemes who are excited to learn and lead our approach.

We would particularly welcome candidates who can bring knowledge and expertise in continuous provision within Key Stage 1, helping us further develop engaging, purposeful and high-quality learning environments that support strong outcomes for all pupils.

We are looking for someone who

• Is an excellent classroom practitioner with high expectations for all pupils
• Is passionate about phonics and early reading, with strong subject knowledge
• Has a clear understanding of child development and progression from Early Years into KS1
• Can lead Key Stage 1 with positivity, organisation and a strong sense of teamwork
• Values collaboration and builds strong relationships with pupils, staff and families
• Can support and develop colleagues through coaching, modelling and collaborative practice
• Is committed to improving outcomes and experiences for all children
• Is ready to take on, or further develop, a leadership role

What We Offer

• A supportive and experienced leadership team
• A strong culture of collaboration and teamwork across the school
• The opportunity to shape and develop a new phase leadership role
• Opportunities to lead whole-school development in a key priority area
• A commitment to research-informed practice and high-quality professional development
• Enthusiastic, well-behaved pupils who are eager to learn
• A welcoming, inclusive and diverse school community

Safeguarding & Eligibility

The school is committed to safeguarding children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The school follows safe recruitment practices to protect children and vulnerable adults.

Successful applicants will be required to apply for an enhanced disclosure from the DBS. Further information can be found at

The school reserves the right to research shortlisted candidates on social media platforms and the internet, and the recruitment panel may take this information into consideration during the recruitment process.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.

School Visits and Contact

We warmly welcome prospective candidates to visit the school. Please contact the school office to arrange a visit or an informal conversation about the role.

How To Apply

Please submit your application form and supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification.

Ensure your supporting statement:

• Clearly demonstrates how you meet all points in the Person Specification
• Addresses each criterion
• Provides specific examples from your practice

Closing date: 9am on Monday 15th June 2026

Interview date: Thursday 19th June 2026