At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver engaging outdoor learning experiences and support children's individual journeys.
- Company: Join the award-winning Muddy Boots Nursery with a focus on nature-based education.
- Benefits: Earn up to £13.60/hour, enjoy flexible hours, free lunches, and extra holiday days.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values growth, teamwork, and responsibility.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a flexible work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Childcare or 6 months experience in a nursery setting.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 13 € per hour.
Application Deadline: 31 May 2026
Department: Early Years Educator
Employment Type: Part Time
Location: Muddy Boots Poppleton
Reporting To: Beth Lamb
Compensation: £13.20 - £13.60 / hour
Description
Early Years Educator – Bank Staff at Muddy Boots Nursery, Poppleton YO26 6QD. £13.20 – £13.60 per hour (age 21+). Part-time (1-5 days per week).
Looking for better work–life balance in early years? We are looking to expand our existing pool of Bank Staff at our Poppleton Nursery. Our flexible bank staff are essential in providing support to the permanent staff at each setting to cover staff holidays, training days and unplanned staffing needs. This flexible working pattern is ideal for anyone who loves working in the nursery sector, but also wants the flexibility to work the days that suit them as well as having the opportunity to work with other teams and children.
At Muddy Boots Poppleton, 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 — and they 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 or those with proven experience of working within the early years sector.
Key Responsibilities
About the role: As a member of our bank staff team at Muddy Boots, you’ll play a vital role in delivering high-quality, nature-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence and independence. Your role will include:
- 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
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
About you: We’re looking for someone who:
- Has a Level 3 or above Qualification in Childcare (ideal but not essential) or have a minimum of 6 months of proven experience within a nursery or childcare setting
- Be available to work between the hours of 8am - 6pm (minimum 1 day and up to 5 days per week)
- Be flexible in your approach to work and be adaptable to different age groups within the nurseries which range from 6 weeks to 4 years old
- Love the outdoors as all nurseries have great outdoor spaces for the children to learn and play in
- 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
Benefits
Why work as bank staff at Muddy Boots? We know that when staff feel valued and supported, they do their best work. That’s why we offer a benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, work–life balance and career:
- Top 10% pay locally, up to £13.60 per hour (21yrs+)
- Flexible working week – more time for you
- Extra holiday days for long‑standing team members
- Enhanced maternity, paternity & adoption pay
- Free lunches, tea & snacks
- 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.
Early Years Educator - Bank Staff (up to £13.60) 21yrs+ employer: Muddy Boots Nursery
Muddy Boots Poppleton is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing and growth of its staff, offering competitive pay rates of up to £13.60 per hour and a flexible working schedule that allows for a better work-life balance. Our award-winning nursery fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture, where employees are encouraged to engage in meaningful outdoor learning experiences while enjoying benefits such as extra holiday days, free lunches, and social events, making it an ideal place for passionate Early Years Educators to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Educator - Bank Staff (up to £13.60) 21yrs+
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take a stroll around Muddy Boots Poppleton if you can. Familiarising yourself with the environment and values will help you connect better during your chat with Beth.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for outdoor learning! When you're chatting with us, share any experiences you've had that highlight your love for nature-based education. We want to see that spark!
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and adaptable in your approach. Since we’re looking for bank staff who can jump in wherever needed, emphasise your ability to work with different age groups and adapt to various situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our amazing team at Muddy Boots.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Educator - Bank Staff (up to £13.60) 21yrs+
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Early Years Education:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for working with children. Share any experiences that highlight your love for outdoor learning and child-led play, as these are key to our values at Muddy Boots.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific role of Early Years Educator at Muddy Boots. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with our focus on nature-based learning and teamwork.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our bank staff team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Muddy Boots!
How to prepare for a job interview at Muddy Boots Nursery
✨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 examples of how you've demonstrated these in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since this role emphasises outdoor play and exploration, prepare to discuss your experiences with nature-based learning. Bring specific examples of activities you've planned or participated in that highlight your love for the outdoors and child-led play.
✨Be Ready to Adapt
As a bank staff member, flexibility is key. Think of instances where you've had to adapt quickly to different situations or age groups in a nursery setting. Be prepared to share these stories to demonstrate your adaptability and willingness to support various teams.
✨Engage with the Interviewer
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the nursery's approach to early years education and team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
