Amanda Thomas
Manchester,Manchester
Summary
Experienced Early Years Leader specialising in EYFS curriculum planning, SEND coordination and safeguarding. Shapes inclusive learning environments that promote child development through play and assessment. Cultivates strong partnerships with families and staff to enhance educational outcomes.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Early Years Lead
Norris Bank Primary School
Manchester
01.2018 - Current
- Led and developed EYFS curriculum to meet requirements, enhancing children's learning experiences.
- Promoted play-based learning strategies in classroom settings to enhance children's engagement and development. a balance of play-based learning and activities that challenge and support children’s development.
- Supported and developed staff through targeted training and guidance, fostering professional growth and improving teaching quality.
- Monitor and promote children’s health, safety and welfare.
- Ensure staff follow health, safety and safeguarding procedures and complete required documentation.
- Contributed to school improvement initiatives by collaborating with the Leadership Team on strategic planning. to the school Leadership Team and support school improvement priorities.
- Promote the school’s ethos, values and high standards.
- Built positive partnerships with parents and carers, strengthening support for children's wellbeing and developmental needs.
Assistant head teacher EYFS Lead/SENDCo
Endeavour Primary School
Manchester
09.2012 - 07.2017
- Led development of EYFS curriculum, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and enhancing learning outcomes.
- Mentored and trained EYFS staff, fostering professional development and improving classroom practices.
- Facilitated engaging play-based learning activities in the classroom. and support children’s development.
- Monitor and promote children’s health, safety, wellbeing and welfare.
- Ensure safeguarding, health and safety procedures are followed.
- Promote the school’s ethos, values and high standards.
- Established positive partnerships with parents and carers to enhance communication. with parents and carers.
- Contributed to school leadership and improvement initiatives, aligning efforts with strategic priorities for overall school enhancement.
Teacher/SENDCo
Peel Hall Primary School
Manchester
01.2000 - 07.2012
- Facilitated development of strategies for pupils to meet diverse learning needs in inclusive classroom.
- Monitor and assess pupils’ progress.
- Provide feedback to help pupils improve.
- Supported pupils' social, emotional, and personal development through tailored interventions.
- Maintain a positive and safe classroom environment.
- Applied behaviour management strategies to foster a focused and productive classroom atmosphere.
- Communicate with parents and carers about pupils’ progress.
- Work closely with colleagues and support staff.
- Maintain accurate pupil records.
- Adhered to school policies to ensure compliance with safeguarding protocols and health and safety regulations.
- Take part in school activities, meetings and professional development.
Education
NPQEYL - Early Years Education
NPQEYL
Manchester01-2025
Bachelor of Education - Primary specialising in Early years
Manchester University
manchester01-1999
A-Levels - English Literature, French and Music
Hyde Sixth Form College
Manchester01-1994
Skills
- EYFS curriculum
- Pupil assessment
- Early years assessment
- SEND coordination
- Safeguarding compliance
- Behaviour management
- Inclusive education strategies
- Leadership
- Communication and language development
Timeline
Early Years Lead
Norris Bank Primary School
01.2018 - Current
Assistant head teacher EYFS Lead/SENDCo
Endeavour Primary School
09.2012 - 07.2017
Teacher/SENDCo
Peel Hall Primary School
01.2000 - 07.2012
NPQEYL - Early Years Education
NPQEYL
Bachelor of Education - Primary specialising in Early years
Manchester University
A-Levels - English Literature, French and Music
Hyde Sixth Form College