We are seeking an enthusiastic Early Years Practitioner to join our friendly Nursery team at an exciting time as we increase our Early Years provision from term time only to a full time Nursery provision providing care from babies through to Pre-school
The successful candidate will ideally have a Level 3 in Early Years Education and should be experienced in planning inspiring activities for children to explore and enjoy. However, we are open to experienced candidates who don’t have a Level 3 qualification. They will be able to demonstrate a track record of high-quality teaching and supporting children within the Early Years Foundation Stage.
The role is a full time, year round role and will initially be in our current Nursery room working with children aged 2-4 years. We are also open to part time applicants at 20 hours per week.
We invite applications from experienced candidates to contribute further to standards of excellence, who love children and aspire to work in a happy and fulfilling environment. Early Years Practitioners report to the Nursery Manager.
Our Henley nursery is located on St Andrews Road and forms part of the evolving educational landscape in the town. During 2026 and 2027, this setting will join with a partner school at Bell Street, to form a new combined prep school across two sites.
The nursery currently caters for children aged 2–4+, grounded in EYFS practice. Over the coming year, the Nursery Manager will lead expansion to year‑round provision and work towards day‑nursery Ofsted registration allowing the nursery to offer care to babies from the age of three months. We are looking for passionate practioners to join our team at this pivotal moment, offering you the unique opportunity to grow alongside us and play a valued role in shaping our expanding provision.
Hours, Salary & Benefits:
Hours: 20 or 40 hours per week, year-round. Permanent role. We are open to full time or part time roles, please let us know what hours you prefer when applying.
Salary: allowances of up to £1,000 ea for responsibilities such as: safeguarding, compliance, curriculum lead, quality lead and staff training.
£13.75 - £13.95 per hour if qualified
20 hours pw - £14,300 - £14,508 pa. £15,508 with an additional responsibility.
40 hours pw - £28,600 - £30,500.00 pa. £32,500 with two additional responsibilities.
Benefits:
- Means tested staff discount
- 5% employer pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- 20 days paid holiday + bank holidays
- Access to the group's counselling scheme
- Personal accident at work cover
- Shopping discount card
- Access to fully funded apprenticeships at Level 3, 4 or 5.
- Discretionary Christmas stand down
- Opportunities for career development within the Wishford group of schools
Person Specification:
The successful candidate will have a Level 2 or 3 in Early Years Education.
- Experience of working in a nursery.
- Evidence of a commitment to continuing professional development.
Knowledge & Understanding
- Demonstrates an enthusiasm and passion for teaching and working with children in EYFS.
- Ability to monitor, assess, record and report pupil’s progress.
Skills & Aptitudes
- Ability to create a happy, challenging and effective learning environment.
- Be able to develop and maintain good professional relationships and contribute positively to all aspects of School life.
- Be able to motivate and inspire pupils.
- Excellent communication skills, in verbal and written form
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- A good standard of written, oral and IT skills.
Disposition
- Professionalism in all areas such as punctuality, work ethic, honesty, reliability and collaboration.
- Willingness to work throughout the school if needed.
- A positive and child-centred approach to teaching with the ability to inspire an enthusiasm for learning.
- Commitment to the safety and welfare of all pupils.
- A ‘can do’ attitude and willingness to work hard to get things done.
- Strong team working skills.
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- High degrees of self-confidence, personal energy and dynamism.
- Personal warmth, good rapport with pupils, colleagues and parents.
- Excellent organisational skills and ability to work effectively under pressure.
- Appropriate levels of personal presentation.
- An understanding of, and commitment to, the School’s ethos.
- Good sense of humour and the flexibility and
- Willingness to be involved in School life.
To read the full job description and apply, please visit eteach -https://www.eteach.com/job/early-years-practitioner-1568561
Pay: £13.75-£13.95 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Health & wellbeing programme
Work Location: In person
