What the job involves
Nursery practitioners care for and educate children from babies to pre-schoolers, following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). A typical day includes:
- Leading activities that support each child’s learning and development
- Acting as a key person for a small group of children and their families
- Observing children and recording their progress
- Personal care, mealtimes and settling children in
- Keeping children safe and following safeguarding procedures
Level 2 or Level 3?
Both are in demand. With a Level 3 qualification that’s on the Department for Education’s early years qualifications list, you can count in the ratios for qualified staff and work towards room leader roles. A Level 2 practitioner works under the guidance of Level 3 colleagues.
If you gained your Level 2 or 3 after 30 June 2016, you’ll also need a paediatric first aid certificate (within three months of starting, renewed every three years) to count in a nursery’s ratios. Not sure whether your qualification counts? Ask us — we’ll check it with you.
Who it suits
You love being with young children, you’re organised and observant, and you work well as part of a team. Experience in baby, toddler or pre-school rooms all helps us match you to the right setting.
Working with us
We have temporary cover shifts and permanent practitioner roles. Tell us which age groups you enjoy most and where you can travel to, and we’ll do the rest.