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- Tasks: Support children's development and lead a fun, engaging nursery environment.
- Company: Join the largest college group in Sussex with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and discounts on gym and nursery fees.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a dynamic work atmosphere.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Early Childhood Studies and experience in childcare.
The predicted salary is between 27975 - 28361 £ per year.
Chichester College have an exciting opportunity for you to join us as a Childcare Officer (Maternity Cover) at our Chichester campus. You will join us on a full time, fixed term basis and in return, we will offer a competitive salary pro rata of £27,975 - £28,361 per annum.
Are you a happy, supportive and fun loving individual who dreams of a job where no two days are the same? An exciting opportunity has arisen to work as a Childcare Officer at our First Steps Nursery based at Chichester College.
The Childcare Officer (Maternity Cover) role
Working with young babies through to children ready to start school, you will share your love for learning and make a real difference in children's development and learning journeys. Together with our dedicated team, you will be a part of ensuring the children are learning, socialising, exploring and having fun.
Responsibilities
- Ensuring the safety, happiness and well-being of children, ensuring that all children are supported to reach their potential and that individual needs are met.
- Effectively leading the team to deliver high quality opportunities, through modelling the expected standards and having high expectations of the team, and ensuring that the day to day experience for children is outstanding.
- Ensuring that there is effective, open and meaningful communication within the team and with parents.
- Supporting children through the implementation of our nursery intent, annual calendar and the delivery of our pre-school curriculum, ensuring that all opportunities for teachable moments are utilised.
- Supporting staff with documentation including (but not limited to) planning, observations and assessments, and reviewing and moderating these to ensure their accuracy and effectiveness.
- Being reflective and reactive to cohort needs/organisational needs/sector updates and to actively aim to solve problems and proactively make a difference through striving for improvement.
- Contributing to and working towards targeted action plans in conjunction with the Childcare Manager.
Ideal candidate
- Level 3 qualification in Early Childhood Studies (or equivalent).
- A period of post qualifying experience working in a childcare setting.
- Experience of leading a team.
- Working knowledge of current Early Years regulations (including Early Years Foundation Stage, Development Matters and Ofsted frameworks/guidance).
- Ability to communicate effectively and purposefully in a range of ways to suit a variety of situations.
Closing date: 11th May 2026.
About The Chichester College Group: The Chichester College Group has seven colleges, Anglia Examinations, First Steps Childcare Group, Chichester English School and 2,600 staff spread across West Sussex and Brighton & Hove. This makes us the largest college group in Sussex, providing high quality learning opportunities for over 25,000 students every year.
We offer generous pension schemes, hybrid working opportunities, college closure days over the Christmas period (which is not deducted from annual leave entitlement) plus the option to purchase up to 10 days additional leave, and discounts at onsite facilities such as gym membership and nursery fees at certain campuses.
If you would like to learn more about our Childcare Officer (Maternity Cover) role, then please click 'apply' today!
All posts are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, which may include a check of the barred lists and any relevant overseas checks.
Childcare Officer (Maternity Cover). Job in Chichester Education & Training Jobs employer: First Steps Child Care
Contact Detail:
First Steps Child Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare Officer (Maternity Cover). Job in Chichester Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the childcare sector, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to childcare. Think about your experiences and how they align with the role at Chichester College. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for early childhood education! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've made a difference in children's lives. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about their development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at Chichester College. So, what are you waiting for? Go for it!
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Officer (Maternity Cover). Job in Chichester Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for working with children shine through! Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in their learning journeys. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the role.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Childcare Officer position. Highlight your Level 3 qualification and any relevant experience leading a team. We’re looking for someone who understands Early Years regulations, so don’t forget to mention that too!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. Remember, we’re busy, and a well-structured application will stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our fantastic benefits there.
How to prepare for a job interview at First Steps Child Care
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage and current regulations. Familiarise yourself with the nursery's curriculum and be ready to discuss how you can implement it effectively. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the framework you'll be working within.
✨Show Your Passion for Child Development
During the interview, share specific examples of how you've supported children's learning and development in previous roles. Talk about those 'teachable moments' you've created and how you’ve made a difference in their lives. This will highlight your commitment and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since you'll be leading a team, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership skills. Share experiences where you've effectively communicated with colleagues or parents, and how you've fostered a positive team environment. Highlighting your ability to lead while being supportive will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be Reflective and Proactive
Prepare to discuss how you've adapted to changes in the childcare sector or responded to the needs of children and families. Show that you're not just reactive but also proactive in seeking improvements. This will illustrate your dedication to continuous development and your ability to think on your feet.