Job Description

Job Overview

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Senior Practitioner to join our nursery team. In this key role, you will support the Nursery Management Team in upholding our vision and values, while helping staff deliver a high-quality, inclusive curriculum in a nurturing environment.

You'll bring strong safeguarding knowledge, a collaborative approach to working with professionals, and the confidence to lead the nursery in the absence of the Manager and Deputy Manager.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities: Support the delivery of a high-quality, inclusive early years curriculum. Promote and uphold the nursery's vision, values, and key principles. Provide guidance and mentoring to staff to ensure best practice. Maintain a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for all children. Act promptly and professionally in all safeguarding matters. Liaise effectively with external professionals to support individual children's needs. Lead the nursery in the absence of the Manager and Deputy Manager, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.

Qualifications and Training

Minimum Level 3 qualification (NQT 3 or equivalent) in Early Years Childcare. Current Paediatric First Aid and Level 2 Food Safety qualifications, or willingness to undertake training.

Knowledge and Understanding:

Secure understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework. Strong grasp of early years pedagogy and child development, informed by experience, research, and high-quality training. Awareness of brain development and attachment theory in young children (desirable).

Skills and Abilities:

Ability to effectively deliver and embed the vision and values of Nest Nurseries. Excellent communication and active listening skills. Strong organisational skills to plan and adapt to the varying needs of children. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team. Reflective and flexible approach to problem-solving and daily challenges. Creative skills such as music, dance, drama, arts, or crafts (desirable).

Personal Qualities:

Passionate about early years education and outdoor learning. Energetic, patient, and caring with a positive, can-do attitude. Ability to inspire, motivate, and engage young children. A good sense of humour and the ability to maintain perspective. Resilient and physically able to meet the demands of working with young children.
If you are enthusiastic about making a difference in the lives of young children and possess the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position as a Nursery Practitioner.

Full details and an application form can be found at www.nestschools.org - working for NEST. We cannot accept CVs.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent, Fixed term contract

Pay: 28,125.00-28,929.00 per year

Expected hours: 22.25 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Employee discount
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 11/09/2025
Reference ID: Nursery Senior Practitioner
Expected start date: 20/09/2025