Third in Charge / Senior Nursery Practitioner
Nest Royal Wharf – London E16
Salary: Starting £33,000 per year (depending on experience)
Full-time | Permanent
Join a nursery that genuinely values people, development and great education.
At Nest Marco Polo, we are more than a nursery. We are a growing group of settings based in the heart of the vibrant Royal Wharf community, committed to delivering exceptional childcare, strong relationships and meaningful learning experiences for children and families.
We are looking for an experienced, motivated and ambitious Third in Charge to join our leadership team.
This role is ideal for someone who is ready to take the next step in their career, enjoys supporting others, and wants to help shape a nursery that is continually improving.
If you are passionate about Early Years, enjoy leading by example and want to be part of a warm, driven and supportive team, we would love to hear from you.
What makes us different?
We believe nurseries should be inspiring places to work.
We offer:
- Competitive salary that reflects your experience and value
- Clear opportunities for career progression and leadership development
- Fully funded training and qualifications relevant to childcare
- Paid time away from nursery for face-to-face training
- Private health insurance and cycle-to-work scheme
- Discounted childcare
- Company pension
- Employee mentoring programme
- 3 paid INSET days per year
- Quarterly staff socials and team events
- A supportive culture where your ideas, creativity and strengths are recognised
Our curriculum embraces creativity, diversity and wellbeing. We enjoy outdoor learning, yoga, ballet, Spanish and Mandarin — and we welcome team members who bring new skills, passions and ideas.
About the role
As Third in Charge, you will play an important role in supporting the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager with the day-to-day running of the nursery.
You will help lead the team, maintain high standards of care and education, and ensure children, families and staff feel supported and valued.
Responsibilities include:
- Supporting the leadership team with the daily operation of the nursery
- Leading by example to deliver high-quality care, learning and teaching
- Supporting, coaching and motivating practitioners within the team
- Building positive relationships with parents and families
- Promoting a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment for children
- Supporting safeguarding, health & safety and regulatory compliance
- Helping drive continuous improvement across practice, environments and outcomes for children
- Acting as a role model for professional standards and teamwork
We are looking for someone who:
- Holds a minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification
- Has at least 3* years’ nursery experience*
- Has experience supporting or leading a team within an Early Years setting
- Is passionate about outstanding childcare and education
- Takes initiative and ownership
- Brings ideas, positivity and a growth mindset
- Communicates confidently and works collaboratively
- Wants to develop professionally and progress within leadership
Successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check.
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Work Location: In person – Royal Wharf, London E16
Apply today and join a nursery where you can grow your career, make an impact and be part of something meaningful.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From £33,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Childcare
- Company events
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee discount
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Private medical insurance
- Referral programme
Education:
- Certificate of Higher Education (preferred)
Experience:
- Leadership: 1 year (preferred)
- Nursery: 2 years (preferred)
- Childcare: 2 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
