Job Purpose
To work as part of a dedicated Early Years team to provide a safe, caring, inclusive and stimulating environment where children aged 0–5 years can learn, develop and achieve their full potential. The Nursery Practitioner will plan and deliver high-quality care and educational experiences in accordance with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), while working closely with children, parents/carers, colleagues and partner agencies.
The postholder will act as a key person for a designated group of children, supporting their individual development and wellbeing through effective observation, assessment, planning and partnership working. The role also requires a strong commitment to safeguarding, equality, inclusion and the delivery of high standards of early years practice.
- Plan, implement and evaluate engaging activities and learning experiences covering all areas of the EYFS.
- Provide high-quality care, learning and development opportunities that recognise and respond to each child’s individual needs, interests, abilities and circumstances.
- Act as a key person for a designated group of children, developing positive relationships and working in partnership with parents/carers to support each child’s development.
- Observe, assess and record children’s play, behaviour, learning and development using appropriate statutory and non-statutory guidance.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date learning journals and share appropriate information about children’s progress and achievements with parents/carers.
- Support parents/carers to extend children’s learning and development at home and provide appropriate advice and guidance on childcare matters.
- Ensure activities, policies, practices and curriculum planning promote equality, diversity and inclusion and reflect the needs of individual children.
- Maintain a safe, secure and stimulating nursery environment, undertaking appropriate risk assessments and following health and safety procedures.
- Be aware of and respond appropriately to children’s dietary, cultural, personal, medical and additional needs.
- Maintain effective nursery routines while ensuring that individual children’s needs and wellbeing remain central to practice.
- Celebrate and acknowledge children’s achievements, displaying their work and contributing to a positive learning environment.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, parents/carers and external professionals to promote positive outcomes for children.
- Support and supervise students within the nursery alongside the Deputy Manager, including contributing to assessments where required.
- Attend and actively participate in supervision, parent/carer meetings, staff meetings, training and other nursery meetings as required.
- Maintain a thorough understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and attend statutory safeguarding children training.
- Identify, report, record and monitor safeguarding concerns promptly in accordance with Council and nursery safeguarding procedures.
- Where required and directed by the Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager, contribute to case conferences and other multi-agency meetings.
- Act as a positive role model, promoting respectful, professional and effective relationships between children, parents/carers and staff.
- Maintain confidentiality at all times in relation to children, families, staff and partner agencies.
- Comply with all relevant legislation, statutory requirements, Council policies, nursery procedures and professional standards.
- Work flexibly across different areas of the nursery and undertake other reasonable duties consistent with the grade and responsibilities of the post.
- Recognised, full and relevant Level 3 or above childcare qualification.
- Significant relevant experience working with children aged 0–5 years in a day nursery, pre-school or similar early years setting.
- Current Paediatric First Aid Certificate.
- Good knowledge and understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and its practical application.
- Knowledge of current childcare legislation, safeguarding requirements and child protection procedures.
- Good understanding of child development, care, learning and play.
- Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and how these principles can be promoted within an early years setting.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to communicate effectively with young children, parents/carers, colleagues and other professionals.
- Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with children and engage effectively with parents/carers and external professionals.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team, supporting colleagues and contributing positively to the wider nursery environment.
- Ability to observe, assess and record children’s development accurately and use this information to inform planning and practice.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
- Strong commitment to safeguarding children and promoting their welfare, safety and wellbeing.
- Ability to work flexibly and adapt to the changing needs of the nursery and individual children.
- Sufficient understanding and use of English to meet statutory requirements for effective communication within the role.
Hours per week: Flexible shift patterns between 7:45am and 6:15pm, Monday to Friday
Location: Bromley Council Nursery / Early Years Setting
Bi-Weekly Payments
