Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
References
Timeline
Generic

Elle Bentley

Hereford,Herefordshire

Summary

With 17 years of comprehensive experience in Early Years education, I bring a deep understanding of child development, the EYFS framework, and the creation of nurturing, stimulating learning environments. Over nearly two decades, I have developed expertise in leading high-quality early years provision, supporting practitioners, and working closely with families to ensure the best outcomes for children.

My background includes designing and implementing engaging, developmentally appropriate curricula; monitoring progress to ensure robust safeguarding and welfare standards; and leading continuous improvement across early years settings. I have a proven ability to mentor staff, model outstanding practice, and foster a collaborative team culture focused on inclusion, early intervention, and the individual needs of every child.

With extensive hands-on experience, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to excellence, I am dedicated to driving high-quality early years practice and ensuring all children thrive in a safe, inspiring, and supportive environment.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification

Work history

Early Years Lead

Diocese of Hereford Multi-Academy Trust
Hereford, Herefordshire
09.2020 - Current
  • Developed early years curriculum to enrich children's learning experiences.
  • Secured £150,000 government grant and managed nursery extension project.
  • Mentored staff in best practices for early childhood education.
  • Collaborated with parents and agencies to address individual children's needs.
  • Organised professional development workshops to enhance teaching strategies.
  • Evaluated educational programmes for compliance with national standards.
  • Implemented assessment strategies to monitor progress and guide future planning.
  • Fostered safe, inclusive learning environment promoting emotional wellbeing.


Class Teacher and Nursery Lead

Marlbrook Primary School
Hereford, Herefordshire
09.2018 - 08.2020
  • Designed and managed project for development of Nursery Forest School outdoor area.
  • Implemented early years curriculum while leading nursery team to promote child development.
  • Conducted parent-teacher meetings to review student progress and resolve concerns.
  • Provided mentorship to junior staff on classroom management and teaching strategies.

Reception class teacher

Holmer C of E Primary
Hereford, Herefordshire
09.2007 - 08.2018
  • Developed engaging lesson plans that promoted creativity and critical thinking in young learners.
  • Fostered a positive classroom environment that encouraged social interaction and collaboration among students.
  • Implemented effective behaviour management strategies to ensure a respectful and productive learning atmosphere.
  • Collaborated with parents and guardians to provide support and resources for children's educational development.
  • Mentored new teachers and assisted in their professional development within the educational setting.

Education

BA(hons) ITE Primary Teaching - Early Years

University of the West of England
Bristol, England
09.2003 - 06.2007

NPQ Early Years Leadership - Early Years

Best Practice
09.2023 - 09.2024

Skills

  • 17 years of Early Years experience
  • Vast understanding of pedagogy and child development
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Experience of EYFS curriculum design
  • Works well as part of a team
  • Thrives on challenges
  • Experience of sharing good paractice and supporting the development of other settings

Affiliations

  • Running
  • Circuit training
  • Spending time with my children

Accomplishments

Modern Foreign Language Lead

Paediatric First Aid

Gymnastics Level 1 Coach

Forest School Level 3 Practitioner

Early Reading and Phonics LEad practitioner (DHMAT Trust)

Certification

NPQ in Early Years Leadership

Sign Along

Languages

French
Elementary

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

NPQ Early Years Leadership - Early Years

Best Practice
09.2023 - 09.2024

Early Years Lead

Diocese of Hereford Multi-Academy Trust
09.2020 - Current

Class Teacher and Nursery Lead

Marlbrook Primary School
09.2018 - 08.2020

Reception class teacher

Holmer C of E Primary
09.2007 - 08.2018

BA(hons) ITE Primary Teaching - Early Years

University of the West of England
09.2003 - 06.2007
Elle Bentley