At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's development through play and deliver engaging activities.
- Company: Brookside Academy, a nurturing environment for young learners.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Early Years Childcare and previous experience required.
The predicted salary is between 12445 - 12445 € per year.
Brookside Academy, Street. Actual Salary: £12,445.92 per annum. Contractual hours: 18 hours per week, basis Part Time - All Year Round.
Job Overview: Maternity Cover Nursery Practitioner (Level 3) 18 hours per week (Monday-Friday), All Year Round. Working pattern can be openly discussed at interview. Maternity cover for one year or until the original postholder returns. Brookside Academy Nursery are currently recruiting a Nursery Practitioner (MAT cover), who is passionate about making a difference to the lives of our children.
The Role: As part of our team, you’ll be responsible for a small group of key children who you will observe, assess and plan for. You’ll provide high-quality care, learning experiences and support our child‑centred approach, working closely with families, and ensuring that our setting remains a safe, fun and enriching.
- To plan and deliver age‑appropriate activities following the EYFS framework
- Supporting children’s emotional, social and cognitive development through play
- Keeping clear records of children’s progress and learning journeys
- Promoting positive behaviour and self‑esteem
- Working closely with parents/carers to build strong home‑nursery relationships
- Maintaining cleanliness, hygiene and safety standards at all times
What we’re looking for:
- Level 3 qualification in Early Years Childcare and Education (or equivalent)
- Previous experience working in an early years setting
- A good standard of literacy, numeracy and written communication
What we offer you:
- A friendly, supportive working environment
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Staff Rewards Scheme including high street, online and supermarkets discounts
- Staff wellbeing hub including online fitness sessions and 24/7 counselling
- Free car parking
Closing date for applications: Midnight, Tuesday 26th May 2026. Start date: 1st August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
We believe in hiring for potential and this means that we value individuals for the knowledge, skills and experience that they have developed in every aspect of their lives. If you don’t feel that you meet all of the criteria listed in the person specification, we would still encourage you to apply. We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, on‑site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Helping you achieve a good work life balance is important to us. Lots of our colleagues work flexibly including part time hours and/or job shares and we are happy to discuss these opportunities with you.
We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secure the best outcomes for our students. We strive to build teams that represent our local communities and welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of an under‑represented group and in particular individuals who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Nursery Practitioner (Maternity Cover) in Somerset employer: Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
Brookside Academy is an excellent employer that prioritises a friendly and supportive working environment for its staff. With ongoing training and development opportunities, a focus on employee wellbeing, and flexible working arrangements, we ensure that our Nursery Practitioners can thrive both personally and professionally. Located in Bridgwater, we offer unique benefits such as a Staff Rewards Scheme and access to a wellbeing hub, making it a fulfilling place to work for those passionate about early years education.
Contact Detail:
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Practitioner (Maternity Cover) in Somerset
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery's ethos and values before your interview. This way, you can show how your passion for early years education aligns with their mission. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some examples of how you've supported children's development in previous roles. Use specific stories to illustrate your skills in planning activities and building relationships with families. We love hearing real-life experiences!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! Inquire about their approach to child-centred learning or how they support staff development. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to engage with the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in children’s lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Practitioner (Maternity Cover) in Somerset
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for working with children shine through. Share specific experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the job description. Highlight your Level 3 qualification and any relevant experience in early years settings to show us you’re the right fit for the role.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your written communication clear and concise. Use proper grammar and spelling, as this reflects your literacy skills, which are important for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust
✨Know Your EYFS Framework
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Be ready to discuss how you would plan and deliver age-appropriate activities that support children's development. This shows your understanding of the role and your commitment to providing high-quality care.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, let your passion for working with children shine through. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles or during your training. This will help the interviewers see your genuine interest in nurturing and supporting young learners.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions where you might need to demonstrate how you'd handle certain situations, like promoting positive behaviour or building relationships with parents. Think of real-life examples from your experience that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to connect with families.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared about the nursery's approach to child development or how they support staff wellbeing. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you gauge if the nursery is the right fit for you.
