Job Description

Nursery Practitioner?
?

The company is unable to sponsor employment of international workers in this role. You will be required to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK.

Job description

Little Elms is a family run business where people really matter, feel valued and have a voice. Whilst all of our nurseries provide exceptional levels of quality care and education, they are all completely unique! Our stunning Greenwich Peninsula nursery is looking for a Bank team to work 0-40 hours across 4 or 5 days per week.

Excellent Benefits on offer include:

Free access to our Employee Assistance Programme (provided by BUPA) Generous Childcare discount Fantastic Transport Links Free uniform is provided Opportunities across all 11 of our nurseries for progression Opportunity to gain further qualifications



The ideal candidate must have:

An interest in working with young children (from 0-5 years) Team player Strong communication skills both written and verbal Ability to use initiative A passion for the Early Years
This position is subject to an Enhanced DBS Certificate and employment references

Little Elms Daycare Nurseries are an Equal Opportunities Employer

Little Elms Daycare Nurseries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

The successful applicant will be required to undertake online safeguarding training and all positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

The company is unable to sponsor employment of international workers in this role. You will be required to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK.

Key Responsibilities

Child Supervision

:Ensuring the safety and well-being of children at all times. Supervising children during indoor and outdoor play, meals, and nap times. Maintaining a safe environment by monitoring activities and addressing any potential hazards.

Supporting Early Learning and Development

:Assisting in the delivery of age-appropriate learning activities and play. Supporting the development of motor, cognitive, and social skills. Helping with structured educational activities, such as storytime, arts and crafts, or music sessions.

Personal Care

:Assisting with children's personal care, including feeding, dressing, changing nappies, and toileting. Encouraging good hygiene practices among the children, such as handwashing.

Communication

:Engaging with children to promote language development and socialization. Providing updates to permanent staff or parents about a child's progress, behavior, or concerns. Maintaining clear communication with colleagues and supervisors.

Behaviour Management

:Supporting positive behaviour by following the nursery's policies and procedures. Encouraging good manners, sharing, and cooperation among children.

Administrative Tasks

:Documenting children's attendance, incidents, and progress. Keeping records of any accidents, illnesses, or concerns that arise.

Assisting with Meal Times

:Helping children during mealtimes, including serving food, assisting with eating, and promoting healthy eating habits. Ensuring that children with special dietary needs are properly accommodated.

Collaboration with Other Staff

:Working together with other staff members to create a positive and supportive learning environment. Assisting the main nursery staff with any other duties or special projects as needed.

Health and Safety

:Ensuring that the nursery environment is clean, tidy, and hygienic. Reporting any safety hazards or concerns to supervisors. Following all health and safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Flexibility and Adaptability

:Being available to work different shifts, as bank staff are often called on an as-needed basis to cover for other staff members.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Communication Skills

Clear and effective communication

is crucial when interacting with children, parents, and other staff members. Ability to explain instructions in simple terms to young children. Strong listening skills to understand children's needs and concerns and respond accordingly.
2.

Patience

Working with young children requires a great deal of patience as they can be unpredictable, emotional, or slow to learn certain tasks. Staying calm in challenging situations and dealing with children's behaviors in a positive, supportive manner.
3.

Child Development Knowledge

Understanding the

physical, emotional, and cognitive development

of children is essential for supporting their growth and planning appropriate activities. Familiarity with developmental milestones, such as language acquisition and motor skill development.
4.

Empathy and Sensitivity

Being

empathetic

and understanding the needs, emotions, and perspectives of children. Providing emotional support and comfort to children when they feel upset, scared, or frustrated.
5.

Organization and Time Management

Ability to stay organized and manage daily routines, schedules, and activities. Efficiently handle multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities.
6.

Creativity

Using creativity to plan engaging and educational activities that support children's learning. Coming up with fun, imaginative games and projects that capture children's interest and stimulate their curiosity.
7.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Nursery assistants need to work well with other staff members, including teachers, other assistants, and management, to create a harmonious environment. Helping others and contributing to team efforts, while being able to take guidance and feedback.
8.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Children's needs and behaviors can change quickly, so being adaptable to different situations is important. Willingness to adjust to changes in schedules, roles, or tasks when needed.
9.

Behavior Management

Ability to support positive behavior in children, including setting boundaries and providing consistent discipline. Handling tantrums, conflicts, or challenging behavior in a calm and constructive manner.
10.

Attention to Detail

Being observant to ensure children's safety, health, and well-being at all times. Noticing any signs of developmental concerns, illness, or accidents and reporting them to senior staff promptly.
11.

First Aid and Health & Safety Awareness

Basic knowledge of

first aid

and emergency procedures in case of accidents or injuries. Understanding and following health and safety protocols, including hygiene practices, food safety, and ensuring a safe environment.
12.

Physical Stamina

Nursery assistants are often on their feet, moving around and interacting with children throughout the day.

Physical stamina

is necessary to keep up with the demands of the job. Lifting, bending, and kneeling to attend to younger children can also be part of the job.
13.

Confidentiality and Professionalism

Maintaining confidentiality regarding children's personal information, family matters, and any sensitive issues. Professional behavior with both children and adults, including parents and colleagues.
14.

Positive Attitude

A

positive, friendly, and approachable

demeanor helps create a welcoming environment for both children and their families. Encouraging a joyful and upbeat atmosphere, which can help children feel comfortable and engaged.
15.

Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

Being mindful of and respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of the children and families. Understanding the importance of inclusivity, ensuring every child feels valued, regardless of their background or abilities.




About Little Elms Daycare


Little Elms is an established nursery that aims to provide the highest standards of care for children aged between 3 months and 5 years.

A family-run business, we believe that a fun and a caring environment is crucial to happy and healthy development.



Our nurseries offer state-of-the-art facilities, combining bright and spacious rooms indoors with fabulous outdoor areas. Our experienced and motivated team provides a stimulating yet safe environment for creative play. Little Elms takes pride in being a friendly setting in which each child's physical, emotional and developmental needs are met. Every child is special and is encouraged to achieve his or her full potential in the precious pre-school years.



Established in 2009, we have 11 nurseries across South London.