At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead children's learning journeys and create engaging routines in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Family-owned nursery dedicated to child development and well-being.
- Benefits: 32 days annual leave, health cashback plan, training, and mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on young lives while growing your career in early years education.
- Qualifications: CACHE Level 2 or 3 in childcare and a passion for early years education.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with excellent mentorship and community events.
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.
Nursery Practitioner (South West London) employer: Abacus Ark
Contact Detail:
Abacus Ark Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Practitioner (South West London)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years education field. Attend local events or workshops, and don’t be shy about chatting with other practitioners. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨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. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about scenarios you might face as a Nursery Practitioner and how you’d handle them. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and ready to impress during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from passionate candidates like you. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Abacus Ark Nurseries. Don’t miss out on the chance to make a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Practitioner (South West London)
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 your skills and experiences are easy to read and understand.
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 the role.
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 for early years education and your ability to implement effective routines.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Nursery Practitioner, strong communication with parents and colleagues is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in past roles, whether it’s through parent meetings or team collaborations. This will highlight your ability to build strong partnerships and maintain a positive classroom culture.
✨Demonstrate Your Nurturing Approach
Be ready to discuss your proactive and nurturing approach to childcare. Think of specific instances where you’ve supported children’s development or helped a colleague. This will illustrate your commitment to providing the best experience for every child and your ability to motivate your team.
✨Prepare Questions About Their Values
Research Abacus Ark Nurseries and prepare thoughtful questions about their values and culture. Ask about their approach to staff development or how they support mental health in the workplace. This shows your genuine interest in being part of their community and aligns with their commitment to a supportive work environment.