Early Years Coordinator

Location:

Vilamoura, PT

Date: 27 Apr 2026

Application closing date:

Inspired Education is the leading global group of premium schools, with a portfolio of 125 premium private schools spanning 6 continents which utilise proven educational practices from every corner of the globe, ensuring over 95,000 students receive a world-class learning experience from Kindergarten to Year 13.

In 28 countries, Inspired schools are individually developed and anchored in the vibrant cultures of their respective locations. They collectively form an international family of schools that nurtures each student's academic and personal development in a progressive, dynamic, and innovative learning environment.

By joining our award-winning team of over 14,000 employees, you can work in state-of-the-art facilities alongside industry-renowned educators and leaders in some of the world's most desirable locations. We invest heavily in our team members who enjoy industry-leading professional development, exceptional career opportunities, and mobility across our group.

ROLE SUMMARY:

Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura (CIV) is the leading international school in Southern Portugal, consistently ranked as the #1 school in the Algarve and among the top 5 nationally. With over 40 years of history, CIV is a premium Inspired Education school, part of a global network of over 110 schools worldwide.

Located in a unique natural setting with over 18,500 m² of outdoor space, the school offers a dual-curriculum model (Portuguese and British/International) that fosters academic excellence, multilingualism, and humanistic values.

As the Early Years Coordinator, you will lead the international department for children aged 3 to 5 (Nursery and Reception). You will be responsible for overseeing an adapted British National Curriculum and the Cambridge Early Years framework, ensuring a play-based, inquiry-led environment that bridges the gap between early childhood and Primary education. Your role is pivotal in maintaining CIV’s reputation for excellence by nurturing the cognitive, socio-affective, and linguistic development of our youngest learners within a diverse community of over 40 nationalities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Pedagogical Leadership

Curriculum Management: Oversee the planning and delivery of the EYFS and Cambridge Early Years frameworks.
Quality of Teaching: Conduct regular lesson observations and provide coaching to ensure high instructional standards.
Innovation: Drive inquiry-based and play-based learning initiatives across the department.

2. Team Management

Leadership: Lead and inspire the Early Years teaching team and assistants.
Staff Development: Identify training needs and facilitate professional development workshops.
Resource Management: Manage the department’s budget and educational resources effectively.

3. Student Progress & Wellbeing

Assessment: Monitor student development through robust tracking systems and data analysis.
Inclusion: Coordinate with the Learning Support team to provide tailored interventions for students.
Safeguarding: Ensure the highest standards of child protection and emotional wellbeing.

4. Communication & Community

Parent Relations: Maintain proactive and transparent communication with families.
Transition Oversight: Manage the smooth transition of pupils from Early Years into the Primary school.
Promotion: Support school events and admissions by showcasing the Early Years department to prospective families.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (mandatory); Master’s degree or leadership qualification (preferred).
Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of teaching experience in an international school setting, with demonstrated leadership or coordination experience.
Curriculum Knowledge: Deep understanding of the UK EYFS framework and/or Cambridge Early Years.
Languages: Native or near-native English proficiency. Knowledge of Portuguese is a significant advantage.

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT:

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

Visit our careers site for more information; https://jobs.inspirededu.com