At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire young children while leading a dedicated team in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join Woodland Day Nursery, rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, Christmas bonus, increased leave, and ongoing training.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team and beautiful natural learning environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Must have Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience with 2-5 year olds.
The predicted salary is between 15.42 - 15.42 £ per hour.
Location: Woodland Day Nursery, 5 Harcourt Road, Bournemouth, BH5 2JG
Job Type: Full-Time, All Year Round (40 hours per week)
Salary: £15.03 - £15.42 per hour (depending on experience)
Join Our Outstanding Nursery
Are you an experienced Early Years Practitioner looking to take the next step in your career? Do you have a passion for inspiring young children while supporting and leading a dedicated team? Woodland Day Nursery is looking for a Senior Lead Early Years Practitioner (Third in Charge) to join our friendly and supportive team on a maternity cover basis. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted, we pride ourselves on providing a warm, nurturing, and homely environment where children are at the heart of everything we do. We are a small nursery caring for up to 25 children aged 2–5 years, allowing us to provide high-quality, individualised care and learning experiences.
About the Role
As our Third in Charge, you will work closely with the management team to support the day-to-day running of the nursery while remaining room-based with the children. You will help inspire learning, support your colleagues, and ensure the highest standards of care and education are maintained. This role combines hands-on childcare with leadership responsibilities, including supporting staff, mentoring colleagues, and assisting with managerial duties when required.
Working Hours:
- Monday to Friday
- 40 hours per week
- 8:00am – 5:30pm (4 days)
- 8:00am – 1:00pm (1 day)
What We're Looking For
We're seeking an enthusiastic, motivated, and experienced childcare professional who has:
- A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above) – essential
- Previous experience working with children aged 2–5 years
- Strong knowledge of the EYFS, SEN, and current Government guidance
- Excellent safeguarding knowledge and commitment to children's welfare
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- The ability to build positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues
- Leadership experience, including mentoring or supporting staff (preferred)
You will be a key person for a group of children while helping to lead by example and maintain our Outstanding standards.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. Every member of staff is responsible for protecting children by following robust safeguarding procedures and promoting a safe, nurturing environment. Successful applicants will be required to:
- Complete safeguarding training
- Undergo an enhanced DBS check
- Provide two satisfactory references
What We Offer
- Competitive salary of £15.03 - £15.42 per hour
- Work within an Ofsted Outstanding nursery
- Christmas bonus
- Birthday off each year
- Increased annual leave with length of service
- Annual pay reviews
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Paid overtime for meetings and training outside normal working hours
- Paid Bank Holidays
- Workplace pension
- Wellbeing support
- Friendly, supportive, and collaborative team
- Beautiful natural learning environment
Apply Today
If you're passionate about early years education and ready to join a caring, dedicated team where your ideas, experience, and commitment are genuinely valued, we'd love to hear from you. Please note: Applicants must hold a full and relevant Level 3 childcare qualification (or above). Unfortunately, unqualified applicants cannot be considered.
Senior Lead Early Years Practitioner in Bournemouth employer: HealthJobs4U Ltd
At Banana Moon, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing work environment where Room Leaders can thrive. With competitive pay, a commitment to professional development, and a strong focus on creating a safe and stimulating atmosphere for children, our team members are empowered to lead with confidence and inspire excellence in early years education. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of families and children within our vibrant community.
