Job Introduction
Main Duties of the Role:
Are you passionate about helping children thrive and develop in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment? We are looking for a dedicated Childcare Officer to join our enthusiastic team at Positive Steps Nursery.
As a Childcare Officer, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality care and education for children, supporting their development through engaging learning opportunities aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). You will work closely with children, families, colleagues, and other professionals to ensure every child receives the best possible start in life.
-
Creating a safe, happy, and stimulating environment for children.
-
Planning and delivering engaging activities that support learning and development.
-
Observing, assessing, and recording children's progress.
-
Acting as a key person for a group of children and building strong partnerships with families.
-
Supporting children's wellbeing, safeguarding, and individual needs.
-
Maintaining high standards of health, safety, and hygiene.
-
Working collaboratively with colleagues and supporting students on placement.
-
Contributing to continuous improvement and professional development activities
-
Level 3 Childcare Qualification or above
-
GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths
-
Paediatric First Aid Level 3
-
Minimum 2 years' experience working with children in an early years, childcare, or education setting
-
Strong knowledge of EYFS, child development, safeguarding, and Ofsted requirements
-
Excellent communication, organisational, and record-keeping skills
-
A positive, flexible, and proactive approach to supporting children and families.
-
EYPS or Teaching Degree
-
Experience supporting children with additional needs
-
Experience supervising students
-
Previous involvement with Ofsted inspections.
At East Durham College, we are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where both children and staff can flourish. You'll benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities, a welcoming team culture, and the chance to make a genuine difference in children's lives every day.
-
LGPS Pension Scheme with up to 17.5% employer contributions.
-
Access to a Cash Healthcare Plan.
-
Heavily Discounted Gym Membership.
-
Enhanced Maternity/ Paternity and Adoption leave.
-
3 days paid emergency leave per year.
-
Various Paid and unpaid leave for other needs.
-
Funded Continuous Professional Development (CPD) where appropriate.
-
Onsite restaurant, Canteen and Hair and Beauty Salon.
-
Free onsite parking.
-
On site Nursery facilities (up to 5 yoa).
-
Cycle to work scheme and much more.
-
Access to free Beamish Tickets.
Now is the perfect time to become part of our fantastic team at East Durham College! With recent investments enhancing our already outstanding teaching facilities and further development on the horizon, the College offers an excellent environment for both staff and students. We take pride in providing access to education for all, offering clear pathways through various stages of learning with a strong focus on employment opportunities across the North East region. We’re also thrilled to have earned our fifth consecutive ‘GOOD’ rating from Ofsted.
East Durham College operates across three campuses, delivering a wide range of courses from general further education and A-Levels to specialist land-based and technical programs, ensuring there is something for everyone. As a team member, you’ll enjoy a generous holiday entitlement, Local Government or Teachers Pensions, free gym access (Willerby Grove Campus), free parking, and much more.
We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive community where everyone can be themselves and succeed. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join our dynamic workforce.
As part of our commitment to equality and diversity, East Durham College operates a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for applicants who meet the essential criteria, as part of our status as a Disability Confident Employer.
At East Durham College, we uphold Safer Recruitment and Keeping Children Safe in Education standards. This role requires an enhanced DBS check. It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.
For more information about the College, please visit our Creating outstanding futures | East Durham College.
