Squirrels Corner Preschool
Job Description: Level 3 Early Years Practitioner
Position
Level 3 Early Years Practitioner
Location
Townhill Way, Southampton SO18 3NU
Pay Rate
National Minimum Wage / National Living Wage
(up to £12.71 per hour depending on age and experience)
Hours
Term-time only (Flexible hours between 07:30 and 16:00)
About Us
At Squirrels Corner Preschool, we pride ourselves on providing an inclusive, warm, and nurturing environment where every child is supported to reach their full potential. We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Level 3 Early Years Practitioner to join our team.
Role Overview
In this role, you will act as a Key Person delivering high-quality early years care and education in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. You will help create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where every child can thrive, play, and learn.
Key Responsibilities
· Key Practitioner: Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences in line with the EYFS framework.
· Child Development: Observe, assess, and track children’s progress, creating individual learning journeys and tailored activities.
· Parent & Carer Partnership: Build strong, trusting relationships with families, offering guidance, regular updates, and compassionate support.
· Inclusive Care: Support children with diverse needs, ensuring an accessible and welcoming environment for all.
· Safeguarding & Inclusion: Maintain high standards of child protection, safeguarding, and equal opportunities across the setting.
Requirements & Qualifications
· Qualification: Level 3 (or above) in Early Childhood Studies / Childcare (required).
· Experience: Proven experience working in an early years setting with strong, practical knowledge of the EYFS.
· Skills: Exceptional communication, empathy, organizational skills, and patience.
· Desirable: An Early Years SENDCo qualification or experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is a strong advantage, but not essential.
What We Offer
· Term-Time Only: Enjoy school holidays off!
· Birthday Day Off: Enjoy a paid day off on your birthday to celebrate!
· Flexible Shift Structure: Working options within 07:30 – 16:00.
· A welcoming, supportive committee and staff team.
· Opportunities for ongoing professional development and training.
· Company pension scheme.
· Employee mentoring programme.
Squirrels Corner Preschool is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All successful applicants will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
“Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.” — Rita Pierson
Pay: Up to £12.71 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee mentoring programme
Work Location: In person
