Early Years Practitioner

**_How would you like to get paid for five days, but only work four?_**

**_ At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first._**

**_ That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay._**

**_ Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG._**

**Job Title: Early Years Practitioner**

**Location: Acorn Park School, Norwich, NR16 2HU**
**Salary: £27,783 per annum (**_not pro rata_**)**

**Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:30am - 4:30pm**
**Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only**
**Start: November 2025**
**UK Applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.**

At Acorn Park School, part of Options Autism, we’re not just delivering education — we’re changing lives. We’re looking for a caring, committed Early Years Practitioner who is ready to make a real difference every single day.

**About the Role**

Working closely with the class teacher, you will support the planning and delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, adapting activities to meet the individual needs of pupils. You’ll work with individuals, small groups, or the whole class, ensuring learning experiences are engaging, inclusive, and supportive. In the short-term absence of the class teacher, you may supervise the entire class and deliver pre-prepared activities, maintaining continuity of learning.

You’ll also contribute to the emotional and social development of pupils, fostering positive relationships and promoting a safe, respectful, and nurturing classroom environment. Safeguarding and the welfare of all pupils will be a key part of your role.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Support the teacher in planning, organising, and delivering engaging learning activities tailored to all pupils’ needs.
- Maintain a purposeful, well-organised, and supportive learning environment that encourages independence and engagement.
- Promote inclusion and ensure equal access to learning and development opportunities.
- Supervise and deliver pre-prepared activities during short-term teacher absence.
- Foster positive relationships, supporting pupils’ emotional and social development.
- Take responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all pupils.

**Requirements**:

- Level 3 qualification such as:

- Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education
- Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
- Level 3 Diploma in Pupil Learning and Development
- Level 3 Diploma in Montessori Pedagogy - Birth to Seven

**What We’re Looking For**

- A compassionate, patient, and caring approach to supporting young people.
- Experience working with children with autism or additional needs is highly desirable.
- Confidence in working independently, as well as collaboratively within a team.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with pupils, parents, and colleagues.
- Creativity and enthusiasm in delivering engaging learning experiences.
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

**About us**

Acorn Park School is an independent special school set on a 37-acre private estate in rural Norfolk, providing a safe, happy, and inspiring environment for young people aged 4-19 with Autism.

Our campus is packed with opportunities to learn and explore, including a Forest School, Animal Care Farm, sports hall, play facilities, and sensory rooms.

We offer tailored learning through two curriculum pathways — Formal and Semi-Formal — with personalised support for pupils with Complex Needs in line with their EHCPs. At Acorn Park, every young person can thrive, grow, and reach their full potential.

For over 19 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care

We are really proud to say that in 2024, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the fifth year running.

**Why join Options Autism?**

We place the outcomes of the pupils in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.

**Benefits**

**Your health and wellbeing are important to us, so you’ll get an exceptional reward package including**:

- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
- “Your Wellbeing Matters” - access to a wide range of first-class mental health support