At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging learning experiences and support children's development in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Family-owned nursery dedicated to high-quality care and education.
- Benefits: 32 days annual leave, health cashback plan, training, and mental health support.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent mentorship and community events.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on young lives while growing your career in early years education.
- Qualifications: CACHE Level 2+ qualification and experience in childcare.
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)
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.
Nursery Practitioner (Qualified) employer: Abacus Ark
Abacus Ark Nurseries is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its team members. With a vibrant work culture, generous benefits including 32 days of annual leave and a comprehensive medical cashback plan, employees are supported in both their personal and professional journeys. The nursery fosters a nurturing environment where passionate educators can thrive, making a meaningful impact on the lives of young children while enjoying mentorship and ongoing training opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Practitioner (Qualified)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the childcare sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get that interview, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to nurturing children's development.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Research common interview questions for nursery practitioners and practice your responses. Think about how your qualifications and experiences align with what Abacus Ark is looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Abacus Ark.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Practitioner (Qualified)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! We want to see how much you care about making a difference in children's lives.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and qualifications that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the role of a Nursery Practitioner.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure to communicate your skills and experiences effectively without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Abacus Ark
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Familiarise yourself with its principles and how they apply to creating engaging learning experiences for children. This will show your passion and understanding of early years education during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Nursery Practitioner, you'll need to communicate effectively with both children and parents. Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships in previous roles. Think about times when you’ve successfully communicated important information or resolved issues with parents.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Collaboration is key in a nursery setting. Be ready to discuss how you’ve supported colleagues in the past and contributed to a positive team environment. Highlight any experiences where you’ve motivated others or worked together to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare Questions About Their Values
Show your interest in the nursery by preparing thoughtful questions about their approach to child development and staff support. Ask about their training opportunities or how they foster a supportive work culture. This demonstrates that you’re not just looking for a job, but a place where you can grow and contribute meaningfully.
