Early Years Practitioner

Southbank International; Greater London; On-site; GBP 22,000 - GBP 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An early years education provider in Greater London seeks a passionate Early Years Practitioner to create a nurturing learning environment. This full-time position involves planning engaging EYFS activities, supporting children's development, and contributing to assessments. Ideal candidates will hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification and demonstrate strong teamwork skills. The role offers a competitive salary, generous holidays, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary depending on qualifications

Pension scheme enrollment

Free lunch during Term Time

Generous school holidays

School fee discount

Ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children's learning and wellbeing in an Early Years setting.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and commitment to children's welfare.
• Willingness to work towards Level 3 Early Years qualification if not held.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of a nurturing, high-quality Early Years environment.
• Plan and deliver engaging EYFS activities with the Nursery Teacher.
• Observe pupils and contribute to assessments and record-keeping.

Skills

Strong teamwork and communication skills

Child-centred approach

Understanding of EYFS practice

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification or equivalent

Job description

About the School-Brighton College Prep Kensington

Brighton College Prep Kensington is a happy and vibrant school for girls and boys aged 2 to 13 years. An exciting, bright and buzzing family school, we are well known for our welcoming atmosphere, high academic standards and exceptional pastoral care. We want our pupils both to enjoy school and be inspired to achieve their full potential.

Our unique location in the heart of Kensington allows us to use the very best of London as our classroom. We make use of all the capital has to offer to enhance our pupil’s learning. With the Natural History Museum, the V&A, Hyde Park and the Science Museum on our doorstep, plus so many more awe‑inspiring landmarks, we have access to the very best educational and cultural highlights as part of our daily school life.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Early Years Practitioner to join our fantastic team.

About the Early Years Environment

Brighton College Prep Kensington provides a warm, inclusive, and carefully structured Early Years environment in which children feel safe, valued, and supported to develop independence and positive learning behaviours. The Early Years Practitioner works closely with the Nursery Teacher to support high‑quality EYFS provision and pupils’ wellbeing.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries – in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East – serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.

About the Brighton College Family of Schools

Brighton College Prep Kensington is a proud member of the Brighton College Family of Schools which includes Brighton College, three other UK based Prep Schools and a growing network of schools around the world. Brighton College is synonymous with academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and a commitment to the Arts, Sports and extracurricular pursuits.

Being a member of both Cognita and the Brighton College Family offers significant development opportunities and collaboration for our staff.

About the Role

In this role, you will support the delivery of a warm, nurturing, and high‑quality Early Years environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to develop independence and positive learning behaviours. Working closely with the Nursery Teacher and the wider Early Years team, you will help plan and deliver engaging EYFS activities, contribute to a calm and stimulating learning environment, and support children across all areas of their development. You will play an important part in observing pupils, contributing to assessments and record‑keeping, and promoting their wellbeing, confidence and personal growth.

This is a permanent, full‑time position with a proposed start date in the new academic year in September 2026.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for a warm, patient and child‑centred Early Years practitioner who is committed to providing an exceptional start for young learners. You will bring a genuine passion for Early Years education and the ability to work collaboratively within a nurturing, high‑quality setting.

Essential Qualities

• A Level 3 Early Years qualification or equivalent (or a willingness to work towards this)
• A secure understanding of EYFS practice and how young children learn
• Experience supporting children’s learning and wellbeing in an Early Years setting
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships
• A clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and a commitment to children’s welfare
• A warm, patient and child‑centred approach in every aspect of your practice

Desirable Attributes

• Experience working in an independent school or other high‑quality Early Years setting
• An understanding of observation and assessment to support pupil progress
• A commitment to ongoing professional development and reflective practice

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Enrolment in our company’s pension scheme
• Free lunch and refreshments provided during Term Time
• Generous school holidays and public holidays
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third‑party discounts
• Ongoing professional development

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date: 9am, Monday 23rd February 2026.

Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex‑Offenders are included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.