At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire and nurture young minds in a creative, outdoor learning environment.
- Company: Join an Ofsted 'Outstanding' nursery with over 35 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, childcare discounts, and professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a growing team with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a fun, supportive workplace.
- Qualifications: Level 2 or 3 Early Years Practitioner qualification and a passion for outdoor learning.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
If you are offered a EYP role, you will receive a £500 recruitment bonus after successfully completing your 3 month probation period. We are looking for inspirational Level 2 and 3 qualified Early Years Practitioners to join our Ofsted 'Outstanding' nursery in Kents Hill, Milton Keynes.
Our nursery building at Kents Hill has been designed in an innovative octagonal shape with a central atrium and light and spacious rooms. The nursery benefits from large garden areas which can be accessed from each of the rooms; this gives the children the opportunity to free flow indoors and outdoors to access a full range of activities. The nursery has pet chickens who roam freely in part of the garden throughout the day, enabling the children to collect eggs and then take turns to take eggs home. The Nursery is currently being expanded with custom buildings which will enable us to offer a further 20 places.
We offer full and part time care for up to 60 children from the age of four months to four years, and are open from 7.30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, all year round. The role will be 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday working between 07:30 and 18:15.
We're proud to be one of the leading childcare providers in Milton Keynes, Northampton and Bedford with over 35 years' experience who specialise in nature pedagogy and promote the professional development of our employees. We believe that childcare needs a personal touch, and our nurseries and out of school clubs offer flexibility and individuality with a homely feel. As a not for profit organisation, we place our children's well being at the heart of our work.
We very much welcome candidates that are looking to progress their personal career development due to future opportunities in the pipeline within the location of MK. The ideal candidate will be passionate, motivated and enthusiastic about outdoor learning and creative play, as well as a good working knowledge and practice of the EYFS and safeguarding procedures.
At Acorn, we're committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong and can thrive. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. As an inclusive employer, we're happy to consider any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process. You must have the right to work in the UK, be able to provide two satisfactory references, and, due to the nature of our sector, all roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.
Benefits:- Payscales that are competitive, transparent and reviewed annually
- 65% Childcare discount - Pro Rata according to contracted hours
- Generous family leave
- Christmas closure
- 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays (and the option to buy more)
- 4 dedicated training days and individual development plans
- Enhanced pension scheme
- Cyclescheme
- Techscheme
- Length of Service awards
- Summer and Christmas parties
- Pay advances
- Employee assistance wellbeing programme
Early Years Practitioner in Milton Keynes employer: Job Search Place Limited
At Acorn, we pride ourselves on being a leading childcare provider in Milton Keynes, offering an inspiring work environment for Early Years Practitioners. Our innovative nursery design, commitment to nature pedagogy, and focus on employee development create a nurturing atmosphere where staff can thrive. With competitive pay, generous leave, and a strong emphasis on inclusivity, we are dedicated to supporting our team while providing exceptional care for children.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner in Milton Keynes
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take a good look at their website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their values, activities, and the unique features of the Kents Hill nursery. This will help you connect your passion for early years education with what they do.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get the chance to chat with the HR team or during the interview, let your enthusiasm for outdoor learning and creative play shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your passion for working with children.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions that matter! Prepare some thoughtful questions about their approach to nature pedagogy or how they support staff development. This shows you're genuinely interested in being part of their team and helps you figure out if it's the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, drop them a quick thank-you email. It’s a nice touch and keeps you on their radar. Plus, it shows you’re keen on the role and appreciate the opportunity to chat with them.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! Share specific examples of how you've engaged with children and promoted outdoor learning or creative play.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your Level 2 or 3 qualifications and any relevant experience you have in childcare, especially in settings that focus on nature pedagogy or EYFS.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your skills and experiences at a glance. We love a well-organised application!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve implemented it in your previous roles and how it influences your approach to outdoor learning and creative play.
✨Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since the nursery focuses on nature pedagogy, share specific examples of how you've engaged children in outdoor activities. Talk about any creative play ideas you’ve used that promote exploration and learning in natural settings.
✨Emphasise Your Team Spirit
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with colleagues. Discuss how you contribute to a positive team environment and how you support your peers in providing the best care for children.
✨Prepare Questions About Career Development
Since the nursery values personal career development, come prepared with questions about growth opportunities within the organisation. This shows your enthusiasm for long-term commitment and professional growth.
