Job Description

Job Specification: Early Years Practitioner Level 2 - Looking to complete Level 3 Apprenticeship

Location:

Little Gardners, Marchwood, Southampton, SO40 4ZH

Contract:

Full Time, Permanent

Hours:

30-35 hours per week (4-day week)

Salary:

12.40 per hour

About Us

Little Gardners

is a purpose-built, family-run nursery based on the grounds of Marchwood Junior School in Southampton. We offer high-quality early years care for children aged 9 months to 5 years, supporting their learning through creative play, exploration and interaction with nature. Our ethos embraces the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and incorporates a Forest School approach -- allowing children to learn and develop outside in our Natural Garden in all weathers. We pride ourselves on creating a nurturing "home from home" environment where children can thrive, explore, and grow.

Role Overview

We are looking for a

Level 2 Qualified Early Years Practitioner

who is enthusiastic, passionate, and committed to delivering outstanding childcare. This is an all-year-round role working 30-35 hours per week on a 4-day week basis. You will be offered set shifts that fall within our nursery hours (8:00am-6:00pm) and these will be agreed with you at interview.

This role is ideal for someone who already holds a Level 2 early years qualification and is motivated to progress to a Level 3 Apprenticeship while working and learning with support from our team.

Key Responsibilities

Deliver high-quality care and learning experiences in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Work collaboratively with the team to plan and facilitate activities that support children's developmental needs Support children's learning and progress through play, both indoors and outdoors Contribute to the nursery's Forest School activities and help maintain outdoor learning areas Communicate effectively with parents/carers, sharing daily feedback and observations Maintain a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for children, families, and colleagues Participate in ongoing training and professional development, including Level 3 Apprenticeship study

Person Specification

Essential:

Level 2 qualification in Early Years

Passion for working with young children and helping them grow and develop Eagerness to progress and complete a Level 3 Apprenticeship Excellent communication and teamwork skills Positive, enthusiastic approach and willingness to be hands-on GCSE Grade 4/C or above in

English

and

Maths or Functional Skills Level 2

Desirable:

Experience in outdoor learning or Forest School settings Enjoys spending time outdoors with children in all weathers Creative thinker with ideas to enhance learning opportunities

What We Offer

Competitive hourly rate of 12.40 Set working hours within nursery opening times Support and mentorship to complete your Level 3 Apprenticeship A welcoming team environment and opportunity to grow professionally Great outdoor spaces and Forest School area for child-led learning
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent, Apprenticeship

Pay: 12.40 per hour

Expected hours: 30 - 35 per week

Ability to commute/relocate:

Southampton SO40 4ZH: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):

Do you hold a Level 2 Early Years Qualification?
Education:

GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person