Nursery Practitioner / Montessori Early Years Educator (Level 3)
Location: Cambridge (CB Postcodes)
Salary: Competitive (Based on qualifications and experience)
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
PLEASE NOTE: NO VISA SPONSORSHIP PROVIDED
Applicants must have the permanent right to work in the UK and currently live within a commutable distance of Cambridge. Applications requiring visa sponsorship or from candidates residing outside the UK will not be considered.
About Us
We are a passionate Montessori nursery group committed to providing exceptional early years education through the Montessori philosophy alongside the EYFS framework. Our environments are carefully prepared to promote independence, confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
We believe children learn best through hands-on experiences, freedom within limits, and respectful relationships. Our practitioners play an active role in guiding children through meaningful learning opportunities while following each child’s individual interests and developmental journey.
About the Role
We are looking for a caring, enthusiastic, and dedicated Level 3 Nursery Practitioner / Early Years Educator to join our Montessori nursery team in Cambridge.
This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about child-led learning and values working in a calm, nurturing environment where children are respected as capable and independent learners.
You will work closely with children daily within our prepared Montessori environments, supporting their development through purposeful activities, observation, and meaningful interactions. You will also work as part of a supportive team committed to high standards of care, safeguarding, and professional practice.
Whether you already have Montessori experience or are looking to develop your knowledge of the Montessori method, we provide ongoing support and training to help you grow within the role.
Key Responsibilities
- Support children’s learning and development in line with the Montessori philosophy and EYFS
- Create a calm, nurturing, and engaging learning environment
- Build positive and professional relationships with children, families, and colleagues
- Observe, assess, and plan for children’s next steps in learning
- Promote independence, confidence, and respect within the nursery environment
- Ensure high standards of safeguarding, health and safety, and wellbeing
- Work collaboratively with the wider nursery team to maintain outstanding practice
- Contribute to the daily running and organisation of the nursery
Requirements
- Minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification (or full and relevant equivalent)
- Previous nursery or early years experience preferred
- Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities
- Knowledge of the EYFS framework
- A genuine passion for early years education and child-led learning
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- A professional, caring, and positive approach
Safer Recruitment & Safeguarding Commitment
Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to robust safer recruitment procedures to ensure all children are cared for in a safe and secure environment.
All applicants will be required to:
- Complete a full application form as part of the safer recruitment process
- Attend an interview process which may include practical activities
- Provide satisfactory references, including from recent employers
- Undergo an enhanced DBS check
- Provide proof of identity, qualifications, and right to work in the UK
- Complete suitability and safeguarding declarations in line with EYFS requirements
We are committed to creating a culture of safeguarding, professionalism, and continuous improvement across all of our settings.
Why Join Our Montessori Team?
Financial & Professional Support
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
- Pension scheme with employer contributions
- Enhanced DBS and renewal costs fully covered
- Mileage contribution for inter-site travel where applicable
Work-Life Balance & Wellbeing
- Up to 34 days annual leave
- Christmas closure from 25th December to 2nd January
- Consistent staffing rotas with minimal last-minute changes
- Paid staff meetings and training sessions
- Complimentary hot lunches, refreshments, and snacks provided daily
- Childcare discount for staff children
Training & Career Progression
- Fully funded professional development opportunities
- Montessori training and mentoring provided
- Leadership development pathways available
- Paid study time for qualifications and coursework
- Access to ongoing CPD and training platforms
Team Culture
- Supportive leadership team
- Friendly and collaborative working environment
- Staff wellbeing focus
- Team events including summer BBQs and Christmas celebrations
Apply Now
Please send your CV to:
Suitable applicants will be contacted to complete a full application form as part of our safer recruitment process.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent, Apprenticeship, Graduate, Volunteer
Pay: £28,000.00-£38,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Childcare
- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Employee mentoring programme
Application question(s):
- What early years qualification do you have?
Experience:
- Nursery: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Early Years Educator Qualification (required)
- Cache Level 3 or other higher qualification in Childcare (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
