Explore the rewarding world of KS1 Primary Teacher + Phonics Lead jobs, a specialised and highly sought-after dual role within primary education. This unique profession combines the foundational responsibilities of a Key Stage 1 classroom teacher with the strategic leadership of a school's phonics programme. Professionals in these jobs are instrumental in shaping the earliest and most crucial stages of a child's literacy journey, making them pivotal to a school's success. As a KS1 Primary Teacher, the core of the role involves educating children aged 5-7 (Years 1 and 2). This includes planning and delivering engaging lessons across the entire primary curriculum, including English, Mathematics, Science, and Foundation Subjects. A key daily focus is on fostering a positive, inclusive, and stimulating classroom environment where young learners feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore. Teachers in these jobs are responsible for formative and summative assessment, tracking pupil progress, and differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of all children in their class. They also maintain strong communication with parents and carers, providing updates on academic and social development. The additional responsibility of Phonics Lead elevates the position to one of curriculum leadership. In this capacity, the individual is the in-school expert on systematic synthetic phonics (SSP). Common responsibilities include overseeing the implementation, consistency, and quality of the phonics programme across the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1. This involves leading training sessions for fellow educators and teaching assistants, coaching staff to improve their phonics delivery, and monitoring the effectiveness of phonics teaching school-wide. The Phonics Lead is also tasked with analysing school-wide phonics screening check data, identifying trends, and using this information to devise targeted intervention strategies for pupils who need additional support. They manage phonics resources and stay abreast of the latest educational research and Department for Education guidance to ensure the school's programme remains robust and effective. Typical skills and requirements for these jobs are comprehensive. Candidates must possess Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and have substantial, proven experience teaching within a KS1 setting. A deep, practical knowledge of a systematic synthetic phonics programme is non-negotiable, as is a firm grasp of the National Curriculum for Key Stage 1. Beyond technical skills, successful individuals are passionate, creative, and resilient educators with excellent communication and interpersonal abilities. They must be confident leaders and collaborative team players, capable of inspiring both children and adults alike. For those seeking a career that blends direct classroom impact with strategic leadership, KS1 Primary Teacher + Phonics Lead jobs offer a uniquely fulfilling and challenging pathway.
