Early Years Practitioner
Children of Towan Kindergarten
Our Ethos
At Children of Towan, we believe every child deserves to be known, understood and valued as an individual. We are a child-centred, play-based setting with a strong focus on outdoor learning, meaningful relationships and reflective practice.
We are looking for practitioners who are curious, compassionate and committed to continually developing both themselves and the children they support.
Main Purpose of the Role
To provide exceptional care and education for children aged 2–5 years in accordance with the EYFS, while contributing positively to a reflective, professional and collaborative team.
Key Responsibilities
- Build warm, secure and trusting relationships with children and families.
- Deliver high-quality play experiences that respond to children's interests and developmental needs.
- Promote children's wellbeing, confidence, independence and sense of belonging.
- Ensure children's safety and wellbeing at all times.
- Work as part of a supportive and professional team.
- Contribute to maintaining an inspiring, clean and welcoming learning environment.
- Support children with SEND and additional needs where required.
- Follow all safeguarding, health and safety and setting policies.
Observation, Recording & Reflection
High-quality observation and reflection are fundamental to our practice.
Successful applicants will be expected to:
- Produce thoughtful, meaningful observations that capture children's learning rather than simply recording activities.
- Complete learning records promptly and to a consistently high standard.
- Reflect on children's development and identify appropriate next steps.
- Use professional judgement when assessing children's needs.
- Engage positively with our developmental observation framework, The Archetype Approach.
- Contribute to discussions around children's learning during team meetings and supervision.
- Maintain accurate records, confidentiality and professional standards at all times.
We place significant value on practitioners who enjoy observing children closely, thinking deeply about what they see, and using those reflections to continually improve practice.
Professional Expectations
We are looking for people who:
- Have genuine warmth and enthusiasm for working with children.
- Are reliable, punctual and organised.
- Demonstrate professionalism at all times.
- Are reflective and open to feedback.
- Take pride in producing high-quality work.
- Are willing to continue learning and developing professionally.
- Can communicate effectively with parents and colleagues.
- Contribute positively to the culture of the team.
- Model kindness, respect and integrity.
Essential
- Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification (or willingness to work towards one where appropriate).
- Sound understanding of the EYFS.
- Good communication skills.
- Commitment to safeguarding children.
- Willingness to work outdoors in all seasons.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Desirable
- Paediatric First Aid.
- Experience working with children with SEND.
- Knowledge of Tapestry.
- Confidence using IT to record observations.
- An interest in child development, psychology or reflective practice.
What We Offer
- A supportive and highly reflective team.
- Ongoing CPD and mentoring.
- Training in The Archetype Approach.
- Opportunities to contribute to the development of innovative early years practice.
- Beautiful outdoor learning experiences including regular beach visits.
- A setting that genuinely values professional thinking, creativity and curiosity.
- A friendly, welcoming team culture where everyone's voice matters.
The Right Person
More than anything, we're looking for someone who loves children, enjoys learning, and takes pride in their work.
We believe outstanding early years practice comes from practitioners who are willing to observe carefully, reflect deeply and continually grow. If you are someone who enjoys asking "What is this child showing me?" rather than simply "How do I manage this behaviour?", you'll feel at home at Children of Towan.
Pay: £12.85 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
