Early Years Practitioner

Early Years Practitioner (Level 2+)

The Orchard Day Nursery at Cambridge International School | Cambridge (CB1)

Permanent | Year-Round | Up to £30,051 FTE (DOE) | Now Offering 4-Day-Per-Week Contracts!

Looking for a nursery where children—and practitioners—are inspired to thrive?

At The Orchard Day Nursery, we believe the early years lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning. That's why we're committed to creating a nurturing, stimulating environment where children feel safe, valued and excited to explore, while our team feels supported, appreciated and encouraged to grow.

Based within Cambridge International School, The Orchard Day Nursery offers a unique early years’ experience, combining high-quality care with a rich, inspiring learning environment. As part of the Inspired Learning Group, you'll enjoy the close-knit feel of a welcoming nursery alongside excellent opportunities for professional development, collaboration and career progression across a wider family of independent schools and nurseries.

We're looking for a passionate and qualified Early Years Practitioner (Level 2 or above) to join our friendly and dedicated team. Whether you're looking for a better work-life balance with our new 4-day working week option or a nursery where your career can flourish, we'd love to hear from you.

What you'll be doing

As an Early Years Practitioner, you'll play an important role in helping every child feel confident, curious and ready to learn. You'll:

• Plan and deliver engaging, play-based learning experiences that reflect children's interests and support their individual development.
• Create a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment where every child feels happy, valued and encouraged to explore.
• Observe, assess and celebrate children's progress, using your knowledge of the EYFS to plan meaningful next steps.
• Build strong, positive relationships with children, parents and carers, working in partnership to support every child's learning journey.
• Encourage children's independence, creativity, confidence and emotional wellbeing through responsive, child-centred practice.
• Make the most of both indoor and outdoor learning opportunities to inspire curiosity and a love of discovery.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain the highest standards of care, education and professionalism.
• Ensure safeguarding, health and safety remain central to everything you do.
• Contribute ideas and enthusiasm to continuously enhance the experiences we provide for children and families.

We're looking for someone who has:

• A DfE-approved Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above).
• Previous experience working in a nursery or early years setting.
• Good knowledge of the EYFS, child development and safeguarding.
• A caring, enthusiastic and positive approach.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A genuine passion for giving children the very best start in life.

We also welcome applications from candidates who have experience working in a nursery environment but have not yet achieved an Early Years qualification. If you're passionate about working with young children and are keen to develop your career, we'd love to hear from you.

Why join The Orchard Day Nursery?

We know that exceptional childcare starts with exceptional people, so we're committed to supporting our team both professionally and personally.

We offer:

• Up to £30,051 FTE, depending on qualifications and experience.
• NEW 4-day-per-week contracts for improved work-life balance.
• Annual salary reviews.
• Discounted childcare.
• Free lunch during your working day.
• Generous holiday entitlement.
• Health and wellbeing support.
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• Career progression opportunities across Inspired Learning Group.
• A welcoming, experienced and supportive team.
• An inspiring working environment within Cambridge International School.

Apply today and help give every child the very best start in life.

For more information, please contact Danielle on 07542 605096 or danielle.james@inspiredlearninggroup.co.uk.

Safeguarding Statement

Cambridge International School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

Successful applicants will be required to undergo enhanced DBS clearance, identity, qualification and employment checks, including exploration of any gaps in employment and the receipt of two satisfactory references.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis.