At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and deliver engaging outdoor learning activities for preschool children.
- Company: Join the award-winning Muddy Boots Nursery with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Earn up to £13.90 per hour, enjoy a 4-day work week, and receive extra holiday days.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth across our nurseries in York and Leeds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while enjoying a fun, outdoor-focused environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification or working towards one, with a passion for child-led play.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 29000 £ per year.
Full-time (4-day week) Early Years Educator – Preschool Room Muddy Boots Nursery, Acomb YO24 3HP £13.50 – £13.90 per hour (age 21+).
Join our award‑winning outdoor nursery where educators work a 4‑day week, are paid in the top 10% locally, and are supported to grow their careers within our nurseries across York and Leeds. At Muddy Boots Acomb, we’re proud to be an award‑winning nursery, recognised for delivering exceptional early years education through meaningful outdoor learning. Everything we do is guided by our core values – Heart, Excellence, Growth, Teamwork and Responsibility – which shape how we care for children, support families and look after each other as a team. We particularly welcome applications from experienced Level 3 Early Years Educators who are ready to grow and develop their career within our nursery group.
Key Responsibilities- Planning and delivering engaging learning activities, with a strong focus on outdoor play and exploration.
- Observing, assessing and supporting children’s individual learning journeys.
- Acting as a key person and building strong, trusting relationships with families.
- Creating a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment.
- Working collaboratively as part of a positive, supportive team.
- Be responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in their care.
- Holds a Level 3 Early Years qualification (or is working towards one).
- Has experience in an early years setting.
- Shares our values and commitment to high‑quality childcare.
- Has a genuine passion for outdoor learning and child‑led play.
- Is positive, proactive and enjoys working as part of a team.
Experience in outdoor education is welcomed, but a willingness to learn and grow with us is just as important.
Benefits- Top 10% pay locally, up to £13.90 per hour.
- 4‑day working week for full‑time staff – more time for you.
- Clear progression opportunities – move through our pay bandings and apply internally for new roles as they arise.
- Opportunities to progress within our growing group, including roles across our nurseries in York and Leeds.
- Extra holiday days for long‑standing team members.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity & adoption pay.
- Free lunches, tea & snacks.
- Lifestyle discounts on groceries, travel, entertainment & more.
- Employee Assistance Programme – mental health support & coaching.
- Staff treats, social events & celebrations.
- Free uniform and on‑site parking.
Muddy Boots is an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to Safeguarding and Promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This job is subject to an enhanced DBS check and Satisfactory References.
Ready to join the Muddy Boots family? If you’re excited by the idea of working in a values‑led, award‑winning nursery where people come first and outdoor learning is central to everything we do, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and start your Muddy Boots journey with us.
Early Years Educator (up to £13.90 21ys) employer: Muddy Boots Nurseries
Muddy Boots Nursery is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and values-driven work culture that prioritises outdoor learning and personal growth. With competitive pay in the top 10% locally, a 4-day working week, and clear progression opportunities across our nurseries in York and Leeds, we are dedicated to nurturing both our educators and the children in our care. Join us for a rewarding career where your passion for early years education can truly flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Educator (up to £13.90 21ys)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery's values and mission. When you walk in for your interview, show us how your passion for outdoor learning aligns with our core values like Heart and Teamwork. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some engaging examples from your past experiences. We want to hear about how you've created stimulating environments or supported children's learning journeys. Real-life stories can make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! Show us you’re genuinely interested in growing with Muddy Boots by asking about career progression opportunities or how we support our team’s development.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining the Muddy Boots family right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Educator (up to £13.90 21ys)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for outdoor education and child-led play. Share any experiences or ideas you have about engaging children in nature, as this aligns perfectly with our values at Muddy Boots.
Highlight Your Team Spirit:We love a collaborative environment, so make sure to mention your experience working in teams. Talk about how you’ve supported colleagues and built relationships with families, as teamwork is key to our success.
Be Authentic and Personal:Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. We want to get to know the real you! Share your journey in early years education and what drives you to work with children.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can start the conversation about your future with Muddy Boots!
How to prepare for a job interview at Muddy Boots Nurseries
✨Know Your Values
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Muddy Boots' core values: Heart, Excellence, Growth, Teamwork, and Responsibility. Think about how your personal values align with theirs and be ready to share specific examples of how you've demonstrated these in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since this role focuses on outdoor play and exploration, prepare to discuss your experiences with outdoor education or child-led play. If you don’t have direct experience, think about how you can express your enthusiasm for learning in natural settings and your willingness to embrace new methods.
✨Prepare Engaging Activity Ideas
Come equipped with a few creative ideas for engaging learning activities that could be implemented in an outdoor nursery setting. This shows your proactive approach and readiness to contribute to the team right from the start.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewers
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Ask them about their experiences at Muddy Boots and share your own stories. A friendly, open attitude can go a long way in demonstrating that you’re a great fit for their supportive team environment.
