At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the learning and development of children aged 2-5 in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Fishwick Primary School, a warm and inclusive community-focused school.
- Benefits: Ongoing professional development, supportive team, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team committed to inclusive practice and exciting developments.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young children's lives and support their early learning journey.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and GCSEs in Maths and English.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Preston Fishwick Primary School, Downing Street, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 4RH (161 on roll)
Contact: Tel: 01772 491402, Electronic: head@fishwick.lancs.sch.uk
Due to the continued development of our EYFS provision, Fishwick Primary School is seeking a number of dedicated and compassionate Early Years Practitioners to join our highly skilled and supportive team. These roles will work across our Section 27 nursery provision (2–4‑year‑olds) and Reception class, supporting children at the very start of their learning journey. We are a warm, inclusive primary school serving a community with high levels of deprivation, with a strong commitment to inclusion and a growing EYFS unit with exciting developments underway. We have a high number of pupils with SEND, including complex needs, and a skilled and experienced team that works collaboratively to ensure every child thrives. A strong focus on nurture, communication, and early development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the learning, development and care of children aged 2–5.
- Work closely with our EYFS Lead and staff to meet a wide range of needs.
- Deliver high‑quality interactions that support communication, play and early learning.
- Contribute to a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment.
- Support pupils with SEND, including those with complex needs, with patience and understanding.
Key Qualifications:
- Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent).
- GCSE Grade 4/C or equivalent in Maths and English Language.
Key Experience:
- Experience working in an Early Years setting.
- Experience supporting, or strong interest in working with, SEND pupils.
- Knowledge and experience of the EYFS and either Birth to Five Matters or Development Matters.
Key Attributes:
- Patient, calm and emotionally attuned to young children.
- Shows compassion, dedication and resilience, particularly in challenging situations.
- Works well as part of a team and is committed to inclusive practice.
Benefits & Conditions:
- Opportunity to be part of an exciting and developing EYFS unit.
- A team of highly skilled practitioners who support each other.
- Ongoing professional development, including SEND and Early Years training.
- A school that values wellbeing, teamwork and making a difference.
- Position is term time only; salary quoted is full‑time equivalent and will be paid on a pro‑rata basis.
Pre‑Employment Checks:
- Enhanced DBS check.
- Satisfactory references.
- Pre‑employment checks in line with safer recruitment guidance.
Equal Opportunities Statement:
The post you are applying for is an equal opportunities position. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and are a Disability Confident employer. We will only consider applicants who are legally entitled to work in the UK.
Closing Date: Close date 08/06/2026 at 9am.
EARLY YEARS PRACTITIONER in Preston employer: Lancashire County Council
Fishwick Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment for Early Years Practitioners to thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development and a collaborative team of skilled practitioners, employees can expect meaningful growth opportunities while making a significant impact on the lives of young children in a community-focused setting. The school's dedication to wellbeing and support for SEND pupils ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered in their role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EARLY YEARS PRACTITIONER in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with early years. They might know about openings before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to early years education. This not only boosts your CV but also helps you meet potential employers and showcase your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply online; visit schools in person if you can! Drop by Fishwick Primary School and express your interest directly. A friendly face can make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep your skills sharp! Consider taking short courses or attending webinars on SEND and early years practices. This shows your commitment to professional development and makes you stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace EARLY YEARS PRACTITIONER in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for working with young children shine through. We want to see your dedication to nurturing and supporting their development right from the start!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in Early Years settings, especially with SEND pupils. We love seeing how your background aligns with our commitment to inclusion and support.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your qualifications and experiences, so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
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 this exciting opportunity at Fishwick Primary School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire County Council
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Be ready to discuss how you would implement it in your role, especially when it comes to supporting children with SEND. This shows that you're not just familiar with the basics but are also committed to providing high-quality interactions.
✨Showcase Your Compassion and Patience
During the interview, share specific examples of how you've demonstrated compassion and patience in previous roles. Whether it's a challenging situation with a child or working collaboratively with a team, these stories will highlight your suitability for the nurturing environment at Fishwick Primary School.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to support children with diverse needs. Think about past experiences where you had to adapt your approach and be ready to explain your thought process. This will help the interviewers see how you handle real-life situations.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school's approach to inclusion and professional development opportunities. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the school’s values align with yours.
