We are seeking a dedicated, passionate, and nurturing Level 2 or 3 Early Years Educator / Nursery Practitioner to join our team in the new academic year (September 2026) at Little Chicks Day Nursery. We are a term-time setting caring for children aged 18 months to 4 years.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in early childhood education and a genuine love for working with children. This is essential for creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where our children can learn and grow. Additionally, the ideal candidate must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and manage various activities, as this is key to fostering positive relationships with our children and their families.
Little Chicks Day Nursery is a small, relatively new setting dedicated to supporting the development of children in their crucial early years. While we promote all areas of learning, we have a strong focus on developing children's speech, language, communication skills, and emotional wellbeing. Our environment strives to be communication-friendly for all children. We require all staff to contribute to and ensure this is effectively embedded in day-to-day practice.
Safeguarding is paramount in our setting. All staff and potential candidates must demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding our children and families and must be knowledgeable about the safeguarding processes for Sefton. As part of our safer recruitment process, all candidates must complete an application form and a self-disclosure form prior to being shortlisted for an interview. Successful candidates will be shortlisted based on their CV/cover letter and application form. The self-disclosure form will only be reviewed after a successful interview. Job offers are conditional upon receiving a clear enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and two satisfactory references, one of which must be from your most recent employer and be provided by the most senior member of staff. Character references can be considered in exceptional circumstances.
Responsibilities:
- Provide high-quality care and education to children aged 18 months - 4 years in accordance with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
- Plan and implement engaging activities that promote children's development across all areas of learning.
- Observe, assess, and plan for children's progress, ensuring each child's individual needs are met and supported.
- Maintain a safe, clean, and organised nursery environment that encourages exploration and creativity.
- Communicate effectively with parents and guardians, providing updates on their child's progress and addressing any concerns.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to create a supportive team atmosphere, sharing best practice and engaging in professional development.
- Support with daily routines, including mealtimes, nap times, and differing play-based activities, ensuring all children feel secure and valued.
- Adhere to the nursery’s safeguarding and child protection policies at all times, reporting any concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Maintain a sound knowledge of and adhere to all of the nursery's policies and procedures at all times and raise any concerns in a timely manner, if they arise.
Person Specification
This outlines the essential and desirable criteria required for this role. Candidates will be assessed against these criteria throughout the selection process.
Essential Criteria:
- A full and relevant Level 2 or 3 qualification in Early Childhood Education or Childcare, as per the Department for Education (DfE) list of approved qualifications.
- Proven experience working with children aged 18 months to 4 years in a nursery or childcare setting.
- A solid understanding of the EYFS framework, including child development and safeguarding principles.
- Familiarity with the safeguarding processes for Sefton.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, in English.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- The ability to work effectively as part of a team and use your own initiative.
- A friendly, approachable personality with a genuine passion for early years education.
- Experience or knowledge of observation, assessment, planning for children's development.
- A firm commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- Willingness to learn and continue your professional development including self-reflective practice skills.
Desirable Criteria:
- Additional relevant CPD courses
- Knowledge and/or experience of specific strategies to support children's speech, language, and communication at different stages.
- Knowledge and/or experience of specific strategies for supporting children's emotional well-being.
- Valid Paediatric First Aid certificate
- Subscribed to the DBS update service
Additional information:
We are a term-time setting (open 38 weeks per year). Working hours available are between 8am - 6pm. We have part time and full time hours available.
Wages are pro-rata across the full 12 months.
All candidates will be required to complete a full application form and self disclosure form. These will be sent via email.
Pay: From £13.27 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Licence/Certification:
- Level 2 or 3 (must be on the DfE spreadsheet) (required)
Work Location: In person
