Salary: from £12.71 - £13 per hour
Hours: Casual hours, as required
Contract: Casual

Role Purpose

The Early Years Practitioner (Casual) provides flexible, high‑quality early education and care for children aged 0–5 in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Working as part of the room team and under the guidance of the Room Manager, Deputy Nursery Manager and Nursery Manager, the practitioner supports children’s learning, development and wellbeing, covering sessions as required to maintain safe staff ratios and continuity of care.

Key Responsibilities

Childcare and Learning

• Deliver high‑quality care, play and learning experiences that support children’s development and wellbeing.

• Create and maintain a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment where children feel secure and valued.

• Plan and support age‑appropriate activities in line with the EYFS, adapting to the needs of the room and individual children.

• Observe and contribute to children’s assessments and records, supporting next steps and daily feedback.

• Prepare and tidy learning environments, resources and activities to support daily routines and planned experiences when covering sessions.

Safeguarding, Health and Safety

• Follow all safeguarding, child protection, health and safety and welfare procedures at all times.

• Support children’s personal care routines, including hygiene, meals and rest, in line with nursery policies.

• Act immediately on any concerns relating to children’s wellbeing, following safeguarding procedures and reporting to a senior member of staff.

Partnership with Parents and Carers

• Greet children and families warmly and professionally on each occasion of cover.

• Build positive, respectful relationships with parents and carers and share relevant information about children’s care and development.

• Support children through transitions, including settling in and room changes when required.

Teamwork and Professional Practice

• Work collaboratively as part of the room and wider nursery team, providing reliable cover and support.

• Contribute positively to the nursery environment and team culture.

• Communicate effectively with colleagues and follow guidance from senior staff during cover periods.

• Demonstrate professionalism, flexibility and accountability at all times.

• Engage in training, supervision and ongoing professional development as required.

Person Specification

Essential

• Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Childcare / Early Years (or equivalent).

• A genuine passion for working with young children.

• A caring, positive and professional approach.

• Good communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.

• Strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting children’s wellbeing.

• Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to undertake one).

• Availability to work casual hours, including short notice cover, term‑time sessions and occasional full days.

Desirable

• Previous experience working in a nursery or early years setting.

• Knowledge and practical understanding of the EYFS.

• First Aid and Safeguarding training (or willingness to complete).

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to equal opportunities. Successful candidates will be required to undergo appropriate checks, including an enhanced DBS.