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- Tasks: Create engaging activities and nurture children's development in a fun, safe environment.
- Company: Join Hungry Caterpillars, a nurturing nursery dedicated to early years education and child development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £500 starter bonus, 50% off childcare, and access to continuous training.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while growing your skills in a supportive, inspiring community.
- Qualifications: Must have a Level 2 or 3 Early Years qualification and experience with children.
- Other info: Work full-time, Monday to Friday, in a modern nursery designed for little learners.
The predicted salary is between 26104 - 29120 £ per year.
£26,104 - £26,728 Level 2 / £26,832 - £29,120 Level 3 + £500 New Starter Bonus
Location: Anglepoint House, Marlow Hill, High Wycombe, HP11 1TJ.
Position Type: Full-Time, All-Year-Round (40 hours per week, Monday to Friday)
Are you a passionate, qualified Early Years Practitioner ready to make a meaningful impact every day? If so, we’d love to welcome you to the Hungry Caterpillar Family - where joy, learning, and development go hand in hand.
About the Role:
As a Nursery Practitioner at Hungry Caterpillars, you’ll play a vital role in delivering exceptional early years education and care. Working as part of a supportive team, you’ll create engaging, child-led activities, nurture positive relationships, and ensure a safe, stimulating environment for every child. Whether indoors or out in our exciting gardens, you’ll bring fun, smiles, and curiosity into each day - helping children flourish emotionally, socially, and educationally.
You’ll also have opportunities to grow your skills and career through our strong focus on professional development, training, and internal promotion pathways.
Responsibilities:
- To assist with the planning of the curriculum using the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum for guidance.
- To help to set up the playroom(s) for the daily programme and to help tidy away at the end of the session.
- To act as a key person to a small group of children, liaising closely and building an effective relationship with parents/carers and ensuring each child’s needs are recognised and met.
- To support meal times within the setting.
- To actively participate at team meetings, supervisor meetings and appraisal meetings.
- To attend training courses as required and to take responsibility for your development.
- To ensure that adequate records are kept and updated regularly.
Why Hungry Caterpillars?
- £500 New Starter Bonus (paid in two instalments)
- 50% off childcare fees from day one
- Company Pension
- Bupa Health Care Package
- Referral Bonuses
- Access to Continuous Training & Development
- Extra day annual leave after probation completion
About Our Nursery:
Nestled in a modern, purpose-built setting, our High Wycombe nursery offers a bright, inspiring environment where children thrive. Opened in July 2019, every detail was carefully designed from the ground up to create a truly special place for little learners.
Each age group enjoys their own spacious, beautifully furnished room filled with natural light, leading directly to a secure, well-equipped garden perfect for outdoor adventures and exploration. Conveniently located near local amenities and excellent transport links, we’re easy to reach and ready to welcome you into our nurturing community.
Capacity: 90 children (ages 3 months to 4 years)
- Baby Room (0-2 years, 23 places)
- Toddler Room (2-3 years, 27 places)
- Pre-school (3-4 years, 40 places)
Opening Hours: 7:30 am - 6:30 pm
What We’re Looking For:
- Full & Relevant Early Years Level 2, 3 or above Qualification (essential)
- Previous experience of working with children, ideally as an Early Years Educator, Nursery Practitioner, Nursery Assistant or Nursery Nurse
- Great communication skills, a sense of humour, a passion for a play-based approach.
At Hungry Caterpillars, we invest in your future with opportunities for professional growth and career progression. If you’re ready to make a real difference in children’s lives and work in an inspiring environment, apply today!
Join our award-winning nursery group and start your next chapter with Hungry Caterpillars!
Early Years Practitioner employer: Hungry Caterpillar Day Nurseries
Contact Detail:
Hungry Caterpillar Day Nurseries Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Understanding its principles and how they apply to child-led activities will help you demonstrate your knowledge during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for early years education by sharing specific examples of how you've engaged children in learning through play. This can set you apart as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of Hungry Caterpillars if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the nursery's approach to professional development and training opportunities. This shows your commitment to growth and aligns with Hungry Caterpillars' focus on nurturing their staff.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant qualifications, particularly your Early Years Level 2 or 3 qualification. Include any previous experience working with children and emphasise your skills in communication and play-based approaches.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for early years education. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to create engaging activities and build positive relationships with children and parents.
Highlight Professional Development: In your application, mention any training courses or professional development you have undertaken. This shows your commitment to continuous learning and aligns with Hungry Caterpillars' focus on staff development.
Showcase Your Personality: Let your personality shine through in your application. Use a friendly tone and include anecdotes that reflect your sense of humour and enthusiasm for working with children, as these qualities are valued by Hungry Caterpillars.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hungry Caterpillar Day Nurseries
✨Show Your Passion for Early Years Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with young children. Share specific examples of how you've engaged children in learning and play, as this will demonstrate your commitment to their development.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the EYFS Framework
Before the interview, brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Be prepared to discuss how you would implement it in your role, as this shows that you understand the educational framework guiding your work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with children or parents. Think about past experiences where you successfully resolved challenges, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to build relationships.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills
Since you'll be working closely with a team, it's important to convey your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked as part of a team in previous roles, and highlight your communication skills, especially when interacting with parents and colleagues.
