At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and engage 3-4 year-olds in fun, educational play activities.
- Company: A nurturing nursery dedicated to early years education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while having fun every day!
- Qualifications: Minimum Level 2 Early Years qualification and experience with young children.
The predicted salary is between 23080 - 24084 £ per year.
Grade 4 £23,080 pa to £24,084 pa. 27.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 12:00pm - 6:00pm (Holiday hours will be scheduled either 7.30-1.30pm or 12-6pm). 39 weeks, term time + 20 days to be worked in the school holidays (scheduled by the Manager). Required: June 2026.
Are you a flexible, adaptable, and experienced practitioner holding a full and relevant Minimum Level 2 Early Years or equivalent qualification? We are looking to appoint an enthusiastic, proactive, professional, experienced practitioner, with excellent knowledge of early years and the Early Years Foundation Stage, to join our nursery team. You will hold a minimum Level 2 qualification in Early Years or equivalent. Applications are welcome from suitably qualified and experienced individuals. The successful applicant will work alongside a dedicated team in the nursery.
- Essential:
- Knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum and working with 3- & 4-year-old children in an early year’s environment
- Qualified to a minimum Level 2 qualification in Early Years or equivalent
- Flexibility and adaptability in a busy environment with the ability to be proactive, creative, and energetic
- Experience of contributing to interesting, educational, and purposeful play activities
- Ability to support the team in set up, and resourcing of the learning environment
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Experience of nursery age children with special educational needs and/or medical needs
Can you:
- Support children to gain self-confidence, participate and form relationships with others
- Follow direction from the Nursery Teacher, Manager and Early Years Practitioner
- Under supervision support senior staff to deliver differentiated activities and specialist programmes
- Build and maintain effective relationships with children and staff
- Work as part of a team
The successful candidate will have to meet the requirements of the person specification in order to be offered the post, and appointment will be conditional subject to clearance by the Disclosure & Barring Service. The school is committed to safer recruitment, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
We welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability or sexuality.
Nursery Play Specialist – Early Years (3–4s) employer: Ealing Council (London Borough of Ealing)
Join our dedicated nursery team as a Nursery Play Specialist, where you will be part of a supportive and inclusive work culture that values flexibility and creativity. We offer competitive pay, opportunities for professional development, and a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Located in a vibrant community, this role provides a meaningful opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of young children during their formative years.
Contact Details:
Ealing Council (London Borough of Ealing) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Play Specialist – Early Years (3–4s)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery and its values! Before your interview, check out their website and social media. This will help you understand their approach to early years education and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be working with children and a team, being able to express yourself clearly is key. Try role-playing common scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creativity! Think of fun and engaging play activities you could bring to the nursery. Be ready to share these ideas during your interview to demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and comfortable with online processes, which is a bonus in today’s job market.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Play Specialist – Early Years (3–4s)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Early Years:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with 3-4 year olds! Share specific examples of how you've engaged children in learning and play. This will help us understand your approach and commitment to early years education.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Mention your Level 2 qualification and any specific training related to the Early Years Foundation Stage. We love seeing how you fit into our nursery team!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your written application clear and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to see your skills and experiences without wading through 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 the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ealing Council (London Borough of Ealing)
✨Know Your Early Years Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Be ready to discuss how you've applied it in your previous roles, especially with 3- and 4-year-olds. This shows you're not just qualified but also passionate about early years education.
✨Show Your Flexibility
Since the role requires adaptability, think of examples where you've had to be flexible in a busy environment. Share stories that highlight your ability to pivot and stay proactive, whether it's during play activities or when supporting children with special educational needs.
✨Team Player Vibes
This position is all about teamwork, so come prepared to talk about how you've collaborated with others in a nursery setting. Highlight any experiences where you supported senior staff or contributed to creating engaging learning environments.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. Practice explaining your ideas clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a few questions to ask the interviewers about their team dynamics or approaches to child development, showing your interest and engagement.