At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage and inspire young minds through creative activities and strong partnerships with parents.
- Company: Join Bright Horizons, a leading nursery group celebrated for its supportive culture and commitment to children.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 50% childcare discount, up to 33 days holiday, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Be part of a Great Place to Work, making a real impact on children's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Must have a Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience working with children.
- Other info: Paid volunteer day each year and opportunities for career progression within a network of 300 nurseries.
The predicted salary is between 21300 - 25000 £ per year.
We are looking for a full time, qualified Early Years Practitioner to join our Bright Horizons Guildford Day Nursery and Preschool, situated 10 minutes from major bus and train routes to Woking, London, Portsmouth, Gatwick, Reading and Redhill. This nursery is located next to Surrey Sports Park for a lunchtime swim or coffee in the café.
What we can offer you:
- Above industry standard salary, with annual salary reviews
- Discounted childcare of 50% for first child
- Up to 33 days holiday per year, with the option to buy additional days
- Smart Health access, including 24/7 access to Virtual GP appointments, fitness programmes and mental health support
- Financial support through early access to wages, low interest debt consolidation loans and a wide variety of discounts across high street brands, travel, utilities and days out
- Development programme access for every stage of your career, tailored to your individual journey, with opportunities across our network of nurseries
- Access to our Future Leaders programme, preparing you to step into a Room Leader position
- Employee Appreciation throughout the year including our annual Awards of Excellence gala’s
- Happy to Talk Flexible Working
Why Bright Horizons?
We are driven by our HEART values (Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork). If your values align, you’d be a great fit to join one of our 300 nurseries across the UK. We’ve also been voted Great Place to Work every year since 2006 - as well achieving Great Place for Wellbeing and Great Place for Women.
Did you know, Bright Horizons Foundation for Children charity has been established since 2005 supporting the lives of thousands of children and families in crisis, across almost 100 locations? Each Bright Horizons colleague is entitled to a paid volunteer day every year!
What you’ll be doing:
- Plan, create, implement and reflect on engaging activities, tailored to each of your key children, to encourage their development towards key milestones.
- Develop and maintain strong parent/carer partnerships
- Promote and ensure child welfare, protection, health and safety and safeguarding
- Work with colleagues to maintain a positive, happy and safe environment
What we’re looking for:
- Full and Relevant Level 3 or above Early Years qualification (essential)
- Previous experience working with children (ideally as a Nursery Nurse, Nursery Practitioner, Early Years Educator, Early Years Practitioner, or similar)
- Passion for making learning fun and engaging for each child
- Ability to build trust and strong working relationships with both colleagues and parents
- Ability to use a variety of communication techniques with both children and adults
- Strong knowledge and understanding of Safeguarding, Child Protection, and the wider legislative requirements for working with children
Bright Horizons are committed to creating inclusive environments where everyone has a sense of belonging and has the opportunity to contribute and thrive in meaningful and impactful ways. We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all ages and backgrounds to apply. We will consider reasonable adjustments required by applicants. Please note, due to our sector all roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS. We look forward to receiving your application!
If you experience any problems, please email europe.recruitment@brighthorizons.com and we will be happy to help.
Early Years Practitioner employer: Bright Horizons UK
Contact Detail:
Bright Horizons UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Bright Horizons' HEART values. During your interactions, whether in interviews or networking, demonstrate how your personal values align with theirs. This will show that you are not just a fit for the role, but also for their culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current employees on platforms like LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and what they love about working at Bright Horizons. This insider knowledge can help you tailor your approach and show genuine interest during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've promoted child welfare and safety in your previous roles. Highlighting your practical experience in safeguarding will resonate well with the hiring team, as it's a key aspect of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider volunteering or attending events related to early years education. This not only enhances your CV but also gives you fresh insights and experiences to share during your application, making you stand out as a proactive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Early Years Practitioner position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children, particularly in roles similar to Nursery Nurse or Early Years Educator. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and passion for child development.
Showcase Your Values: Bright Horizons values HEART (Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, Teamwork). Make sure to reflect these values in your application by providing examples of how you embody them in your professional life.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in a role that involves working with children.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bright Horizons UK
✨Show Your Passion for Early Years Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've made learning fun and engaging in your previous roles, as this aligns perfectly with what Bright Horizons is looking for.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Safeguarding
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of safeguarding and child protection. Highlight any relevant training or experiences that showcase your commitment to ensuring a safe environment for children.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work with parents and colleagues. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated challenges in a nursery setting.
✨Align with Their HEART Values
Familiarise yourself with Bright Horizons' HEART values: Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork. Be ready to provide examples of how you embody these values in your professional life, as cultural fit is crucial for them.