At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the care and development of children in a fun, nurturing environment.
- Company: Babraham Nursery, part of a renowned life sciences charity.
- Benefits: Free lunch, parking, 25 days holiday, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a friendly team in a homely atmosphere with great career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Passion for childcare and teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 22992 - 26933 € per year.
Babraham Nursery recognises every child as an individual and prepares them for their first school steps within a fun, safe and nurturing environment. We are seeking to recruit a Nursery Assistant to work across all ages within the nursery. The successful candidate will assist with the care and development of children and will be expected to work Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8.30am – 5.45pm, and Friday 8.30am – 5.15pm, with one hour’s unpaid lunch break each day.
The Nursery is primarily for the use of staff at the Babraham Institute, a world‑renowned charity in life sciences. Babraham Nursery opened in September 1990 and operates from a large house in a quiet residential area within the Institute grounds. It offers a homely atmosphere, green fields, woods, a large enclosed garden with climbing frame, pathways and grassed areas. Nursery accommodates up to ninety children on the Early Years register aged from 6 weeks to 5 years and also operates a separate after‑school club and holiday club for school‑aged children at the local school.
We are an extremely supportive and friendly organisation; described as warm and community‑focused, and staffed by a highly qualified, knowledgeable team that works together in an inclusive, family‑friendly environment.
Benefits include:
- Free lunch
- Free parking
- Training and development opportunities
- 25 days holiday a year plus Bank Holidays (pro rata if applicable)
- 26 weeks of maternity leave at full pay
- 3 paid Christmas Closure Days
- Employee Assistance Programme
- 50% discount on Stagecoach bus travel
We welcome applications from all sections of society. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and an enhanced DBS check is required. Closing date for applications is Tuesday, 16th June 2026. However, we reserve the right to close the vacancy early depending on the volume of applications received. NO AGENCIES PLEASE.
Babraham Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award and is committed to promoting a culture of excellence, diversity and mutual respect; it follows the government’s Disability Confident Scheme and has a positive approach to employing disabled people.
Department: Nursery
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: 40.75
Nursery Assistant (Nursery) employer: Babraham Institute
Babraham Nursery is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment for both children and staff. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits such as free lunch and generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to inclusivity and community, it provides a fulfilling workplace for those passionate about early childhood education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Assistant (Nursery)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take a stroll around the Babraham Nursery website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their values and the environment they create for children. This will help you connect your passion for childcare with what they stand for.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to child development and care. Think about your experiences and how they align with the role of a Nursery Assistant. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share stories that highlight your nurturing side and how you’ve contributed to a positive environment in previous roles. Remember, they’re looking for someone who fits into their warm, community-focused culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, don’t hesitate to send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the position and keep you on their radar. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Assistant (Nursery)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Childcare:When writing your application, let your love for working with children shine through! Share any relevant experiences or anecdotes that highlight your enthusiasm and commitment to nurturing young minds.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and environment of Babraham Nursery. Mention how you can contribute to their fun, safe, and nurturing atmosphere, and align your skills with their needs.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to see your personality, so don’t be afraid to let it come through while keeping it professional!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at Babraham Nursery!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babraham Institute
✨Know the Nursery's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand Babraham Nursery's mission and values. They focus on nurturing individual children in a fun and safe environment, so think about how your own values align with theirs and be ready to discuss this.
✨Showcase Your Experience with Children
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully cared for or developed children. Whether it's through previous jobs, volunteering, or even babysitting, having concrete stories will demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some thoughtful questions about the nursery's approach to child development or their community-focused initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Since you'll be working with children, expect some practical scenarios during the interview. Think about how you would handle various situations, like managing a group activity or comforting a child. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident.
