Afterschool Early Years Lead (Level 3 Qualification in Early Years - Essential) - Merchant Tayl[...] in Watford

Location: Merchant Taylors’ Prep WD3 1LW Northwood, Watford

Hours: up to 15 hours a week 3.00pm - 6.00pm Monday to Friday

Pay: Up to £15.00

Contract: Term-Time Only

Start date - September 2026

Make a difference. Inspire little learners. Love your job.

Looking to bring your passion for Early Years to life? Join us as an Early Years Lead and help little ones flourish in a safe, nurturing, and playful environment. You’ll plan and deliver creative, age-appropriate activities, ensure children’s wellbeing, and inspire curiosity every single day.

At Junior Adventures Group (JAG), we’re the UK’s leading provider of wraparound childcare — and we’re all about play, learning, and connection. If you’re Level 3 qualified and ready to take the next step in your Early Years career, we’d love to hear from you!

What you’ll do day-to-day:

• Create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our youngest children.
• Plan, lead, and deliver fun, structured activities like storytelling, creative arts, sensory play, group games, and outdoor adventures.
• Support children’s development and wellbeing through engaging, age-appropriate experiences.
• Be a role model of excellent safeguarding and follow Health & Safety policies at all times.
• Provide healthy snacks, support toileting and hygiene routines, and ensure every child feels safe, cared for, and included.
• Set up and tidy play spaces, adapting environments to meet the needs of different activities.
• Maintain accurate records (accident/incident forms, observations, registers, etc.).
• Build positive relationships with parents, schools, and your team.
• Promote early years best practice and nurture a love for learning through play.
• Uphold confidentiality and high standards of child protection.

What’s in it for you?

• Access to 24/7 wellbeing support through Health Assured.
• Discounted wraparound and holiday club care for your little ones.
• Rewards for recommending friends and family to join the JAG family.
• Paid training and ongoing personal & professional development.
• No weekend working.
• Family-friendly hours and a supportive, fun team culture.

So, what does it mean to be a JAG Early Years Lead?

Are you caring, creative, and full of positive energy? We’re looking for someone who can confidently lead Early Years activities and bring the magic of early childhood learning to life. With your Level 3 qualification, you’ll help our little ones grow, explore, and discover in a safe and happy space — while also supporting your team to shine.

Our people make JAG special. Every day, our incredible teams create joyful, meaningful experiences for children across the UK.

Safeguarding

This role requires a Level 3 Early Years qualification. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children in our care. All roles require an Enhanced DBS check and are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. You must provide two references — one from your most recent employer and one from a childcare setting (if applicable).