Nursery Practitioner (South West London)

Location: Abacus Ark Nurseries (Clapham Junction, Wandsworth, Earlsfield & Maida Vale)

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent (40 hours per week, either 4 or 5 days)

Salary: £27,000 - £32,000 (depending on qualifications and experience)

About Us

Abacus Ark Nursery is a family-owned and operated nursery school devoted to the well-being and development of children. Our child-focused team is passionate about delivering the highest quality of care and education. Our nursery offers a vibrant and welcoming environment where children feel safe, loved, and inspired to learn. We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated Nursery Practitioners to join our team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children! At Abacus, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally.

What You’ll Enjoy:

• 32 Days Annual Leave: Including 4 personal wellbeing days and 8 bank holidays
• Medical Cashback Plan: Health Shield plan worth over £1,000 annually, covering everyday health costs like dental, optical, and therapies
• Training & Development: Ongoing courses in First Aid, Safeguarding, and more plus access to our self-paced learning platform, Flick.
• Mentorship & Support: Learn from experienced early years educators and receive regular guidance and feedback
• Mental Health Support: Access to resources and a workplace culture that prioritises wellbeing
• Paid DBS Check: We cover the cost, so you can focus on what matters
• Company Pension and Events: Including social activities that help you feel part of a community

What You’ll Be Doing:

As a Key Teacher, you’ll play a central role in a child’s early learning journey. You’ll lead your room’s daily routines and learning plans, ensuring each child feels safe, supported, and inspired to grow. You’ll also help guide your colleagues, collaborate with parents, and maintain high standards across all areas of care and education.

Your Responsibilities Will Include:

• Designing and implementing engaging routines and learning experiences in line with the EYFS
• Creating a safe and stimulating environment, while managing risk assessments and individual child health needs
• Observing and assessing children’s progress, tracking against EYFS milestones
• Building strong partnerships with parents through consistent, professional communication
• Supporting junior staff and working collaboratively with senior leadership
• Motivating your team and helping to build a positive, high-energy classroom culture

What We’re Looking For:

We’re seeking someone with a passion for early years education and a proactive, nurturing approach. You’ll be confident leading a classroom and supporting others, with a genuine commitment to providing the best experience for every child.

Requirements:

• Level 2 or 3+ CACHE/NVQ in childcare (or equivalent)
• Ability to obtain a clear enhanced DBS check (paid for by us)
• Right to work in the UK
• Ability to provide three referees

Preferred:

• Diploma of Higher Education
• Experience working with children in a nursery or early years setting
• A strong team ethic, patience, and excellent communication skills
• Basic understanding of health and safety regulations in childcare

Working Hours:

Full-time: 40 hours per week. Our nurseries operate 50 weeks per year, from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about early years education and ready to take the next step in your childcare career, we’d love to hear from you. Join a nursery where your work has meaning and where your growth is as important as the children’s.