Nursery Practitioner-Level 3

Tops Day Nurseries Ltd; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider in Lymington is seeking a Nursery Practitioner to support the educational and social development of children up to five years old. This role includes providing a safe learning environment, engaging children in play activities, and maintaining communication with parents. A Level 3 Early Years Qualification and a strong understanding of safeguarding procedures are required. Join a dedicated team and enjoy benefits like childcare discounts and health support.

Benefits

Up to 60% childcare discount

Health & wellbeing support

Generous holiday allowance

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 Early Years Qualification.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures.

Responsibilities

• Providing day-to-day care including feeding and changing diapers.
• Developing and leading age-appropriate activities.
• Observing children's development and identifying concerns.
• Ensuring a safe and emotionally supportive environment.
• Keeping records of each child's progress.
• Maintaining communication with parents or guardians.

Skills

Understanding of safeguarding procedures

Strong communication skills

Education

Level 3 Early Years Qualification

Job description

Tops Day Nurseries provided pay range

This range is provided by Tops Day Nurseries. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base Pay Range

• Location: Lymington, Hampshire, United Kingdom
• Job type: Full Time Permanent
• Salary: £14.10 per hour
• Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week

Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?

At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee‑owned childcare group, we know that valuing people is the key to success. When you join us, you become more than an employee – you become a co‑owner with a voice, opportunities to grow, and a share in our success.

With 38 nursery sites across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. Opportunities are available for Apprenticeship, Nursery Practitioners, Nursery Managers & Casual staff, and we are always looking for passionate individuals to join us.

We’re proud to be recognised as a World’s Happiest Workplace 2025 and one of the Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024).

About The Role

Our Nursery Practitioners look after the educational and social development of babies and young children up to the age of five. Their primary duties include providing children with a safe environment to learn, helping them to develop basic social and behavioural skills, and engaging them in age‑appropriate play activities. In joining us, you’ll also become part of our extended family and work alongside other team members who are passionate about providing care, warmth, and kindness.

Locations available: Parkstone.

Why You’ll Love Working with Us

• Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
• Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more)
• Health & wellbeing support – NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
• A generous holiday allowance – including your birthday off & a wellbeing day!

What Does the Role Involve?

• Providing day‑to‑day care, including feeding, changing diapers, and helping children with toilet training. They also ensure a safe, clean, and stimulating environment.
• Developing and leading fun, age‑appropriate activities that promote learning and development, focusing on key areas like social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills.
• Observing children’s development and identifying any areas of concern. They help children develop their motor skills, language, and social interactions through play and structured learning.
• Ensuring that children are safe and emotionally supported. They create an atmosphere that encourages children to explore and learn independently.
• Keeping records of each child’s progress, including documenting milestones, behaviours, and developmental needs.
• Maintaining regular communication with parents or guardians about their child’s progress, needs, and any concerns.

What Are We Looking For?

• A minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification is required.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures.

Important Safeguarding Information

• Must hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service. If you don’t yet have one, you’ll need to cover the cost.
• Be eligible to work in regulated roles – not on the Children’s Barred List.
• Successfully complete background and reference checks.

At Tops Day Nurseries, we are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Apply Now

Excited to make a difference? Take the next step in your career and join Tops Day Nurseries.