Are you an experienced Early Years professional with a passion for inspiring children and supporting colleagues?
We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Nursery Lead Practitioner to join our small, friendly and nurturing nursery.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Level 3 (or above) Early Years Practitioner with leadership experience. As a smaller nursery, our Nursery Lead Practitioner will provide leadership across the nursery floor, supporting staff, maintaining high standards of practice and overseeing the implementation of our curriculum to create exceptional learning experiences for every child.
Working closely alongside the Director and Nursery Manager, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the nursery floor and supporting the delivery of our curriculum, while continuing to spend the majority of your time working directly with the children.
About Us
At Little Feet Day Nursery, we believe every child deserves a place where they feel safe, valued and inspired to learn. Our approach encourages curiosity, independence and confidence through meaningful play, child-led experiences and nurturing relationships.
We pride ourselves on providing a warm, family-focused environment where children flourish, families feel supported and staff are genuinely valued.
The Role
As our Nursery Lead Practitioner, you will:
- Lead high-quality practice across the nursery floor.
- Support, mentor and motivate members of the nursery team.
- Lead by example through outstanding interactions with children.
- Ensure the nursery environment remains safe, stimulating and welcoming.
- Support in-the-moment planning and deliver engaging learning experiences in line with the EYFS and our nursery values.
- Oversee the implementation of the curriculum and promote high-quality teaching and learning.
- Monitor observations, assessments and children's progress to ensure high standards are maintained.
- Coordinate daily routines, staff deployment and break cover.
- Promote positive behaviour and support children's emotional wellbeing.
- Build strong partnerships with parents and carers.
- Support safeguarding, health and safety, and the implementation of nursery policies and procedures.
- Work closely with the Director and Nursery Manager to continuously improve the quality of the nursery.
Essential Requirements
- Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above).
- A minimum of two years' experience working within an Early Years setting.
- Previous leadership experience within an Early Years environment.
- Excellent knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
- Strong knowledge of curriculum planning and implementation.
- A sound understanding of safeguarding procedures.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- The ability to lead, motivate and inspire a small team.
- A caring, positive and enthusiastic attitude.
- A genuine passion for delivering outstanding childcare.
Desirable
- Previous experience as a Senior Practitioner, Room Leader, Lead Practitioner or similar leadership role.
- Paediatric First Aid qualification.
- Experience supporting and mentoring staff development.
- Strong knowledge of child development and inclusive practice.
- Experience of Montessori-inspired and Hygge approaches to Early Years practice.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary.
- A supportive and welcoming working environment.
- A small, friendly team where every member is valued.
- The opportunity to help shape the future of our growing nursery.
- Company pension.
- Discounted childcare (where applicable).
- Uniform provided.
- Staff wellbeing initiatives.
- Recognition and reward for outstanding practice.
- Ongoing professional development opportunities.
Hours
- 37.5 hours per week.
- Monday to Friday.
- No weekends.
Successful applicants will require
- An enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain one).
- Satisfactory references.
- Full safeguarding and suitability checks in line with safer recruitment guidance.
If you're passionate about making a real difference in children's lives and would like to become a key part of our friendly and dedicated team, we'd love to hear from you.
Pay: From £25,564.50 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
Work Location: In person
