Job Description

Company Overview

The Orchard Day Nursery and Preschool is a family-run business providing high-quality childcare to families in Caversham for over 35 years. Set on the outskirts of the village in our beautiful landscaped 1/2 acre gardens, we have created a 'hidden gem' that focusses on creativity, wellbeing and the great outdoors through caring for babies and young children. We spend most of each day outdoors where children thrive and are most happy. Orchard's approach is eclectic and always evolving and reflecting areas of education philosophy that suit the current children's personalities and interests in the moment. We are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, take guidance from the writings of Maria Montessori and weave selected elements of the New Zealand Te Whariki curriculum in to ours. Children and staff are fed incredibly well by our on site cook as Orchard places significant emphasis on the benefits of nutrition and physical activity to build learning power.

Summary

We are seeking an experienced and qualified Early Years Educator to join our practice team. In this role, you will be able to shine as you bring your passion for outdoor teaching, for building family-style bonds with children and your instinct for inclusive education to support the lifelong learning of all our children whatever their ability and learning needs.

Orchard is a small setting and colleagues work in small co-caring groups to deliver a home from home care and education programme that is varied and dynamic; including preparing meals for the day or carrying out other duties within the organisation such as admin tasks, gardening or hosting family events.

The position offered is all year round with some flexibility on the days and hours available. We are really keen to meet intelligent and qualified new colleagues who share Orchard's values as a community oriented setting. Please write to us with your up to date CV if you have significant experience working within Early Years and would like to find your new opportunity in a warm, inspiring and well resourced environment where you can apply your skills and training and make a real difference.

Responsibilities

Act as a key person to a small group of children aged 9 months to 5 years old. Plan and deliver inspired and engaging learning experiences with and for children that promote their holistic development. Create a safe, nurturing physical and emotional environment where children feel brave and confident to learn and grow. Communicate effectively and in partnership with parents about children's progress. Collaborate with team members to maintain high standards of care and education. Observe and assess children's progress, adapting activities as needed.

Requirements

Relevant qualification in Early Childhood Education or Childcare ( Level 3, Level 5, EYTS, NNEB). Experience working with young children in a nursery or preschool setting. Strong communication skills to engage with children, parents, and colleagues. Ability to manage a classroom environment effectively. Leadership skills are a plus but not required. Confidence in your own personal practice is essential.
If you are passionate about early childhood education and want to make a difference in young children's lives, we invite you to apply today and join our dedicated team at The Orchard Day Nursery and Preschool!

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From 30,000.00 per year

Expected hours: No less than 30 per week

Benefits:

Additional leave Company pension Discounted or free food Employee discount Sick pay
Schedule:

Day shift Monday to Friday
Education:

A-Level or equivalent (required)
Experience:

key working: 1 year (preferred) early education: 2 years (required) childcare: 2 years (required)
Language:

Fluent English (required)
Licence/Certification:

Early Years Qualification at Level 2 or 3 (required) Paediatric First Aid Certification (preferred) DBS update service (preferred)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Location:

Caversham RG4 6LJ (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Part Time Qualified Practitioner July 2025