The Old Granary, Dunton Road, Basildon, Essex, England, SS15 4DB
About the Role
Role Summary
As an Early Years Practitioner (Level 2), you will support the delivery of high-quality care and education to young children in a nursery setting. You will assist in creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment, contribute to activities that promote children’s development, and build positive relationships with parents, while adhering to early years standards.
Key Responsibilities
Child Development and Care:
Assist in delivering age-appropriate activities that support children’s learning and development in line with early years frameworks (e.g., EYFS or equivalent).
Support observations of children’s progress, contributing to records under the supervision of senior staff.
Help create a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment that meets the needs of young children.Team Collaboration:
Work closely with Room Leaders and other practitioners to support daily routines and activities.
Participate in team discussions and share ideas to enhance the nursery’s practices.
Collaborate with colleagues to maintain a cohesive approach to care and education.Parent Engagement:
Build positive relationships with parents through daily interactions and updates on their child’s activities.
Assist senior staff in responding to parental queries and sharing feedback.Operational Duties:
Help maintain a clean, safe, and well-resourced environment for children’s learning and play.
Support daily routines, such as mealtimes, rest periods, and transitions, ensuring children’s comfort and safety.
Report any resource or maintenance needs to senior staff.Compliance and Safeguarding:
Follow nursery policies and procedures to meet safeguarding, health, and safety standards.
Assist in maintaining accurate documentation, such as attendance or incident reports, under supervision.
Uphold safeguarding practices to ensure the welfare of all children.
Requirements
Essential:
A recognized Level 2 qualification in Early Childhood Education or Childcare (e.g., Level 2 Certificate for the Children and Young People’s Workforce or Level 2 Diploma in Early Years Education).
A genuine passion for working with young children (ages 0-5) and supporting their physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
Good communication and interpersonal skills to engage with children, parents, and colleagues effectively.
Basic understanding of early years regulations, including safeguarding and health and safety standards.
Enthusiasm for contributing to a nurturing and educational environment through teamwork and adaptability.
Ability to assist in maintaining an organized, clean, and safe environment for children.
Preferred:
Familiarity with early years frameworks, such as EYFS, and its seven areas of learning.
Any practical experience in a childcare or educational setting (e.g., placements or volunteering).
Basic proficiency with digital tools for recording observations or parent communication (e.g., Tapestry, ParentZone).
Pediatric First Aid certificate (or willingness to obtain one upon hiring).
Awareness of diversity and inclusion principles to support children from varied backgrounds.
Additional Requirements
A valid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (or equivalent background check) to ensure suitability for working with children.
Willingness to complete mandatory training, such as safeguarding or food hygiene, as required by the employer.
About the Company
About the Opportunity
Our client, a dedicated childcare provider, is seeking passionate individuals with a Level 2 qualification in Early Childhood Education to join their team as an Early Years Practitioner. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work with young children, support their development, and grow within a supportive nursery environment.