Early Years Practitioner

YMCA Fairthorne Group; Andover; On-site; GBP 18,000 - GBP 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A children's charity is seeking a caring individual for a childcare role in Andover. You will promote a nurturing environment for kids, supporting their development through engaging activities. Candidates should have a Level 2/3 childcare qualification or equivalent experience, understanding child needs, and a commitment to high-quality, safe care. Join us to create a brighter future for children in your community and thrive in a supportive culture with various professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Refer a Friend Scheme

25 days holiday + Bank Holidays, increasing with service

Wellbeing assistance programme

Cycle to work scheme

Discounts on nursery fees and camps

Qualifications

• Commitment to high-quality childcare for ages 4 months – 5 years.
• Understanding the developmental needs of children.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices.

Responsibilities

• Promote a nurturing environment for children's development.
• Engage children with activities and observations.
• Ensure a safe nursery environment.

Skills

Childcare

Communication

Teamwork

Engagement with children

Education

Level 2/3 childcare qualification

Job description

Benefits to you

• Refer a Friend Scheme
• Blue Light Card eligibility
• 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days
• Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days per annum)
• Celebration leave
• 50% discount on nursery fees
• Enhanced Maternity
• Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum
• Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor: campsite, river hire, activities, day camps
• 30% discount on food in Cafes: Fairthorne, Eastleigh and Andover
• Wellbeing assistance programme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Good quality resources and a modern environment
• A welcoming, caring and supportive culture

Key Responsibilities

• Promote a nurturing environment whilst engaging with children of all ages and developmental skills, encouraging each child to meet his/her potential by supporting them through learning and play with positive reinforcement and praise.
• Support children, co-workers and parents alike; deliver stimulating indoor and outdoor activities; complete and record daily observations for children in your care; and plan their next developmental steps in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage.
• Comply with policies and procedures outlined by the setting.
• Attend training opportunities for personal and professional development as well as the development of the organisation.
• Assist in ensuring that the Nursery is a safe environment for children.
• Embrace the variety of each day, use initiative to keep children engaged and support their emotional needs as they arise.

Qualifications and Skills

• Level 2/3 childcare qualification or relevant experience is desirable.
• A commitment to providing high-quality childcare including physical care and hygienic practice for children aged 4 months – 5 years.
• Have an understanding of the developmental needs of children, Statutory Framework and relevant legislation.
• Basic knowledge of health and safety.
• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding good practice.
• Paediatric First Aid qualification or willingness to train.

If you’re passionate about early childhood education and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us in nurturing futures and creating a brighter tomorrow for all. Apply now to start your Early Years career.

The YMCA are huge advocates of personal and professional development.

• Access to 26 online professional development modules.
• Inspiring opportunities to work in different settings and share practice.

Successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service.

We are an equal opportunities charity with commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace. A copy of this policy will be made available on request.

Please apply now for this rewarding position and be part of an amazing charity who continues to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.