Early Years Teacher - Taunton in Somerset

Salary: from £13.83 per hour

Hours: Full time (typical 40 per week)

Contract: Permanent

We are seeking a qualified and enthusiastic Early Years Teacher to join our nursery in Taunton. You will lead curriculum planning and delivery for children aged 0–5, promote high standards of care and learning, and contribute to a nurturing, inclusive environment. The role involves line‑management duties, supporting and mentoring room teams, working with parents and external professionals, and ensuring compliance with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and our policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership and Curriculum
  • Lead the development and implementation of a rich, play‑based curriculum in line with the EYFS and nursery values.
  • Plan, evaluate and adapt learning experiences to meet the needs of all children, including those with additional needs.
  • Promote high quality practice through modelling, coaching and supporting room staff.
  • Maintain accurate assessment records, observations and next steps to inform planning and share progress with parents.
• Safeguarding, Health and Safety
  • Ensure safeguarding and child protection procedures are understood and followed by all staff.
  • Risk assess activities and environments to maintain a safe, healthy setting for children and staff.
  • Promote children’s personal care routines, wellbeing and independence in line with nursery policies.
• Partnership with Parents and Professionals
  • Build positive, respectful relationships with families, communicating regularly about children’s care and learning.
  • Work collaboratively with external agencies, health professionals and local schools to support children’s development and transitions.
  • Lead parent meetings, send home learning guidance and involve families in nursery life.
• Teamwork and Professional Development
  • Manage and support room teams, contributing to recruitment, induction and performance management.
  • Contribute to a culture of reflective practice, continuous improvement and staff development.
  • Attend and lead staff meetings, training and supervision sessions as required.
• Quality and Compliance
  • Support external inspections and ensure the nursery meets regulatory requirements and internal quality standards.
  • Contribute to policy development and ensure staff adhere to nursery procedures and best practice.

Person Specification

• Essential
  • Qualified teacher status or recognised early years teacher qualification (EYTS) with substantial early years experience.
  • Strong knowledge of the EYFS and current early years practice.
  • Proven ability to lead, coach and inspire a team.
  • Commitment to safeguarding and promoting children’s welfare; willingness to undertake required pre‑employment checks (including an enhanced DBS).
• Desirable
  • Experience working in a nursery setting with children aged 0–5.
  • Additional training in special educational needs, early language development or behaviour support.
  • Willingness to engage with the local community and support transition to school.

Why join us?

• Be part of a supportive, values‑led organisation committed to high quality early years education and staff development.
• Opportunities for career progression, leadership development and continuous professional learning.
• Collaborative team environment where staff wellbeing and professional practice are prioritised.

Our commitment to safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check and our safer recruitment processes.