Overview
We are looking for a qualified Early Years Educator (you must hold a Full & Relevant EarlyYears specific Level 2 or 3 qualification to apply). Unfortunately we cannot offer sponsorship.
Our lovely team need an extra person to support them with providing consistent care and learning opportunities in our small, family-owned single setting.
We are small but busy and are very fussy when selecting new team members! If you can convince us that you have what it takes to be the extra smile at our door, please continue to read and find out more.
We are based on farmland and have the most beautiful surroundings which allow us to have our very own Forest School. Families share that they choose us for our consistent team and purposeful outdoor areas. They comment on the rare situation of touring a calm and nurturing setting that has a real 'extended family' feel. If you are passionate, positive and professional, take a look at our website, the 360 virtual tour and send us an email for an information pack. We are happy to show shortlisted candidates around the setting to help with the success of this recruitment process.
We would prefer a full-time team member but may consider 3 days for the right candidate *pay would be adjusted to contracted hours.
We are open all year with the only closures of Bank Holidays and the week between Christmas and New Year. Unfortunately, we do not employ term time only or school hours. We are open from 8am - 6pm and staff work 3 or 4 full days (full time staff have a rota day off each week). This position would be contracted for 38 hrs per week (4 days pattern from 7:50am to 6:05pm)
Look at the reviews on our website.
What are you waiting for? Click to the website and see for yourself why we love our little nursery and why you should take the leap of faith and apply!
Testimonial from a past member of our team:
I feel so lucky to have worked in such a warm, supportive and genuinely special setting. The care and encouragement I have received - both professionally and personally - has meant more to me than I can properly put into words.
I am especially grateful to Jen for her wonderful mentoring during my Early Years Teacher training. Her support, patience and belief in me helped me grow so much in confidence, and I will always carry that with me.
Being Room Lead has been such a proud and happy chapter for me. I have loved working alongside such a lovely team and being part of the children’s early journeys. The nursery really is an amazing place, and I will always speak so highly of it.
Visit www.sparklingminds.co.uk for contact details and an opportunity to look at our 360 tour.
We are committed to equality, inclusion, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and we expect all staff to share this commitment. Preferred candidates will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and will be required to complete safeguarding training. 2 references must be received before any employment can commence.
Duties
- Plan, organise, and deliver engaging activities tailored to the developmental needs of children in accordance with early years curriculum standards.
- Supervise and support children during play, learning, and mealtime activities, ensuring their safety at all times.
- Foster a warm, inclusive environment that promotes children's social, emotional, and cognitive development.
- Collaborate with colleagues to develop individualised learning plans and monitor progress.
- Maintain accurate records of children's development and daily activities in compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Communicate effectively with parents and guardians regarding children's progress and any concerns.
- Lead by example in maintaining high standards of behaviour, organisation, and professionalism within the nursery setting.
- Assist with the organisation of nursery routines, including arrival and departure procedures.
- Support the management team in implementing policies related to health & safety, safeguarding, and quality standards.
Skills
- Proven experience working with children within a nursery or early years setting.
- Strong management and leadership capabilities to oversee daily operations effectively.
- Excellent communication skills in English, both verbal and written, to liaise confidently with children, parents, and colleagues.
- Knowledge of early childhood education principles, child development stages, and childcare regulations.
- Ability to plan engaging educational activities that stimulate learning through play.
- Organised with good time management skills to handle multiple responsibilities efficiently.
- Compassionate approach with genuine enthusiasm for nurturing young children's growth.
- Valid driving licence is desirable for transporting children or attending off-site activities. This role provides an enriching environment where your expertise can truly make a difference in young lives while working within a supportive team dedicated to excellence in early childhood education.
Pay: £24,420.00-£27,976.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Having looked at our website and read the advert in detail, why would you like to work for Sparkling Minds when almost every other setting is also recruiting?
Licence/Certification:
- UK Right to work certification (required)
- Minimum Level 2 EYFS Full & Relevant Qualification (required)
Work Location: In person
