Qualified Nursery Practitioner (Level 2 or above)
About This Role
Job Title: Qualified Nursery Practitioner
Location: Akeley Wood School, Akeley, Buckingham
Salary: Up to £32,427.20 per annum (pro-rata)
Hours: Varied shifts Monday-Friday between 07:30-18:30 | Choose a 2, 3, 4 or 5-day week.
Contract: Permanent | 52 weeks
Holiday: 25 days + bank holidays
Akeley Wood Junior School is a welcoming, dynamic, and nurturing community nestled in beautiful rural surroundings near Buckingham. Our Nursery creates a joyful, engaging, and secure environment where children aged 12 months to 4 years can explore, play, and learn with confidence.
We are on the lookout for a passionate, caring, and committed Qualified Nursery Practitioner to become part of our Early Years team. We also encourage applications from apprentices, making this an excellent opportunity for those eager to start or advance their careers in early childhood education.
The Role
As an Early Years Practitioner, your responsibilities will include:
- Delivering high-quality physical, emotional, social, and intellectual care for children in our Nursery.
- Assisting in the planning and execution of creative, age-appropriate activities tailored to individual needs.
- Fostering warm, trusting relationships with children and families, ensuring clear and positive communication.
- Acting as a Key Worker, carefully observing and documenting each child’s progress.
- Demonstrating a calm, nurturing demeanor and encouraging positive behavior.
- Upholding a safe, clean, and stimulating environment with consistently high standards of care and hygiene.
- Supporting daily routines, including mealtimes, rest, play, and transitions.
- Collaborating with colleagues to ensure an inclusive and supportive setting.
Our Nursery operates year-round, with shift patterns of 8:00 am–5:00 pm or 9:00 am–6:00 pm on a weekly rota.
About You
We seek a candidate who possesses:
- A Level 2 childcare qualification (or higher).
- Experience in a nursery or Early Years setting.
- A warm, empathetic, and energetic approach to working with young children.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues and parents.
- An understanding of safeguarding, child development, and safe working practices.
- Flexibility, resilience, and a genuine passion for supporting children's growth.
Experience in supporting children with SEND or additional qualifications like First Aid would be advantageous.
Why Join Akeley Wood Junior School?
You will be part of a dedicated, friendly, and supportive Early Years team that is deeply committed to nurturing young children and helping them develop into confident, inquisitive learners.
You will benefit from:
- A caring and highly supportive work environment
- A picturesque, nature-rich setting that enhances learning
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- A team culture founded on collaboration, creativity, and kindness
Safeguarding Commitment
Akeley Wood School and Blenheim Schools prioritize safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are required to adhere to safeguarding policies and complete relevant training. This position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and social media checks.
We may close this vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.