Job Description

Join Our Team: Early Years Educator/Teacher & Key Person

Location:

Willow on the Farm Nursery School, Hook Norton, OX15 5DQ

Start Date:

1 September 2025

Working Pattern:

Term-time only (33 weeks + INSET days)

Hours:

Part-time, 28.5 hours/week (Mon 8-4; Tue 8-5.30; Wed 8-1.30; Thurs 8-1.30)

Salary:

13,476 - 15,640 pro rata (19,387 - 22,500 FTE) depending on experience

Inspire Curiosity. Nurture Wonder. Build Resilience.

Are you passionate about helping young children grow into confident, independent, and caring individuals? Do you believe in the power of nature, creativity, and child-led learning? Join our dedicated team at Willow on the Farm Nursery School as an Early Years Educator & Key Person.

We're looking for someone who brings warmth, commitment, and professionalism to every child interaction--and who's excited to work in a setting where Montessori principles, Forest School learning, and strong safeguarding underpin everything we do.

Why Willow on the Farm?

At Willow on the Farm, we're not just a nursery--we're a nurturing community. Our ethos centres on helping children develop key values: Confidence, Independence, Resilience, a Caring Nature, Courage, Grace, and Courtesy.

We combine high-quality early years education with real-world exploration and outdoor learning to spark curiosity and build solid developmental foundations.

What You'll Do:

Be a trusted Key Person for a group of children, supporting their growth and development. Carry out and log meaningful observations and next steps using My Montessori Child*.
Support children's physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs--including toileting and hygiene support. Prepare stimulating environments and engaging materials in line with Montessori practice. Work closely with Room Leaders and Managers to ensure smooth day-to-day operations. Attend regular team meetings, parent events, and ongoing training sessions.

What We're Looking For:

Essential:

Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification (or equivalent). Minimum of 2 years' recent experience in an Early Years setting, including Key Person responsibilities. GCSEs in English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above). Strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding, and statutory guidance. A flexible, team-focused mindset with excellent communication skills.

Desirable:

Paediatric First Aid, Food Hygiene, Safeguarding, Forest School, SENCO or DSL certifications. Experience working with children with SEND or in a Montessori environment. Awareness of inclusive practices and cultural diversity.

Other Requirements:

Enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Physical ability to support outdoor and Forest School activities.
What We Offer:

A welcoming, collaborative, and supportive team. Opportunities for professional growth and specialist training. A meaningful role where you'll make a lasting difference in children's lives.

Ready to Apply?

We'd love to hear from you!
Please email office@willowonthefarm.co.uk to request an application form or visit our website https://willowonthefarm.co.uk/news-and-information/jobs/

Willow on the Farm Nursery School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We follow Safer Recruitment practices in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024 and Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023.

Let's create a world full of curiosity, awe, and wonder--together.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: 13,476.00-15,640.00 per year

Expected hours: 20 - 30 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Ability to commute/relocate:

Banbury OX15 5DQ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 27/06/2025
Reference ID: EYEWOTF2025
Expected start date: 01/09/2025