Nursery Practitioner
| Company: | University of Birmingham |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £25,977 to £27,506 a year |
| Hours: | Full-time |
| Location: | Birmingham, B15 2TT |
| Working pattern: | On-site |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Posting date: | 24 Sept 2026 |
| Closing date: | 22 Oct 2026 |
Summary
Background
Pre-appointment checks
In line with recommendations and regulations relating to Early Years safeguarding and recruitment, please note that for this role:
The University will seek references from at least one referee prior to interview. Candidates must therefore provide at least one referee whom we can contact immediately. The remaining referees will usually only be contacted if you are offered appointment. Please indicate clearly on your application form which referee(s) we may contact prior to interview.
Candidates invited to interview will be asked to disclose all past names, for the sole purpose of verifying identity for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and safeguarding checks. Candidates will be asked to bring documents to verify their identity (e.g. birth/adoption certificate and any evidence of name changes).
All successful candidates will be required to undergo a DBS check covering all names used.
Role Summary
You will provide high quality care, learning and development for all children attending the nursery. You will ensure that children are safe, happy and stimulated with their individual needs met, in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum (EYFS). You will also carry out light domestic duties. In order to flexibly use resource you may be given the opportunity to work in different areas of the department or wider University.
The role of the Nursery Practitioner is to ensure that all children attending The Elms Day Nursery receive high quality care, are kept safe, and receive rich and stimulating play experiences which meet their individual needs and support all aspects and components of the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum. This role will entail light domestic duties as and when required in the playrooms.
This role as a Nursery Practitioner is working up to 35 hours per week for a private early years day nursery based in leafy Edgbaston, next to the University of Birmingham campus offering excellent public transport links. You will receive a generous package of benefits including:
40 days paid holiday a year
1 paid day a year for volunteering
2 paid staff training days
Occupational sick pay
Discounted gym membership at the new sports centre
Recognition scheme
Staff discount on childcare
An in-depth induction to the nursery including EYFS
Ongoing training and development opportunities
Main Duties
You will provide high quality, positive care for children through social, emotional, educational and practical interaction, nurturing and guidance.
You will follow the policies and procedures and comply with the Children Act (2006), Health and Safety legislation and within the requirements of Ofsted and the Early Years Foundation Stage, including ensuring confidentiality is maintained.
You will ensure the children are kept safe, are well, and that Child Protection Procedures are followed.
You will implement the key worker system to address the individual needs of each child, their family and carers.
You will have an awareness of the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice Undertake observation and assessment of children’s learning and development, helping ensure records are kept up-to-date, of a high standard and shared effectively.
Partner with parents/carers to keep them informed of their child’s day and progress.
Organise, maintain and ensure a clean, tidy, hygienic, safe, child-friendly environment.
Plan, prepare and supervise activities such as arts and craft, cooking, reading, music, outdoor and physical activities both indoors and out.
Clean and maintain toys and equipment in a safe manner.
Feed babies and young children ensuring their nutritional needs are met, complying with Food Safety Regulations.
Change nappies and support children with potty training and toileting.
Help children to learn social, emotional, numeracy, language and practical skills.
Work with staff within the nursery to provide a high quality nursery service.
Work with outside professional bodies and agencies as appropriate.
Implement the daily routine of the nursery.
Participate in meetings.
Follow the nursery’s practices, processes and procedures. E.g. positive behaviour management techniques.
Learn about developments in childcare and undertake training as required.
Ensure the health and safety of colleagues and children, complying with all Health and Safety requirements.
Treat everyone with dignity and respect, supporting equality and valuing diversity.
Undertake other duties as required.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience
Childcare and Education NVQ Level 3 or equivalent
GCSE English Language and Maths or equivalent Level 1 qualifications
Need strong attention to detail and can do attitude
Experience of working with children from birth to 5 years and positive behaviour management
Knowledge of developments in early years education and willingness to undertake training
Sound knowledge of legislation, regulations, Ofsted requirements, inspection criteria and the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Understanding of how to ensure health and safety and hygiene in a childcare setting
Understanding of and commitment to Child Protection procedures
Physically and mentally suitable to care for children, including ability to deal with challenging behaviours
Ability to promote good practice in a professional manner
Ability to communicate well and work well with children and adults from diverse backgrounds
Ability to write legibly and present information well
Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team
Good organisational skills
Ability to learn and understand how diversity considerations affect early years’ childcare
Ability and willingness to take on duties as required
A sound understanding of and commitment to equal opportunities, inclusion and anti-bias
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