Early Years Practitioner

Safeguarding Statement

New Beginnings is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and barred-list check. We follow safer recruitment practices.

About Us

We are a growing group of nurseries dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can thrive. Our ethos is rooted in curiosity, creativity, and a genuine passion for early childhood education.

About the Role

We are seeking a caring, skilled, and reflective Early Years Practitioner to help deliver high-quality care and education for children in our setting. You will be a positive role model, build strong relationships with children and families, and contribute to a safe, inspiring environment that supports every child's learning and development.

Job Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Nursery Manager to oversee the daily operations of our nursery. The ideal candidate will possess strong management and leadership skills, along with a passion for early childhood education. This role involves ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children while also managing staff and engaging with parents.

Key Responsibilities

• Be a consistent key person, building warm, professional relationships with children and parents/carers.
• Plan, deliver, and evaluate age-appropriate, play-based learning in line with the EYFS, our curriculum, and children's next steps/interests.
• Make accurate observations and assessments, contributing to children's learning journeys and progress tracking.
• Promote safeguarding, health & safety, and hygiene at all times; follow all policies, risk assessments, and reporting/escalation procedures.
• Support daily routines (mealtimes, sleep, toileting/nappy changing) with dignity and inclusion.
• Create enabling indoor/outdoor environments, ensuring high standards of presentation, accessibility, and safety.
• Work collaboratively with your team to uphold consistent, high-quality practice and positive behaviour support.
• Build effective parent partnerships, sharing progress and strategies, and signposting support when needed.
• Embrace reflective practice and attend training/CPD to continually improve outcomes for children.
• Contribute to inclusion and SEND support plans, making reasonable adjustments and following professional advice.

Essential Requirements

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent). Strong Level 2 applicants working towards Level 3 may be considered.
• Enhanced DBS clearance and the right to work in the UK.
• Sound knowledge of the EYFS, child development, and safeguarding.
• Experience working with children in an early years setting.
• Confident communication skills (written and verbal) and professional record-keeping.
• A proactive, caring approach with commitment to inclusion and equality.
• Willingness to support personal care and follow allergy/medical plans.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Paediatric First Aid (training can be provided if not already held).
• Level 2 Food Safety (or willingness to complete).
• Experience with SEND strategies (e.g., PECS, Intensive Interaction, Makaton) and differentiated planning.
• Familiarity with digital learning journals and observations.
• Forest School interest/experience.
• A valid driving license (a plus).

Experience

• Strong background in early childhood education or related fields is highly desirable.
• Experience working directly with children in a nursery or similar environment is required.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both verbal and written, to effectively engage with staff, parents, and children.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Free on-site parking and access to a bike-to-work scheme.
• Monthly Wellbeing Wednesday initiatives.
• A robust training and CPD budget to support professional growth.
• Opportunities to develop new skills such as Forest School, Makaton, or specialist training.

Commitment to Safeguarding and Inclusion

New Beginnings is committed to safeguarding all children and promoting an inclusive environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and celebrate diversity across our nurseries.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £19,890.00-£26,520.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person