At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire young minds through engaging outdoor learning experiences and build strong relationships with families.
- Company: Join the award-winning Muddy Boots Nursery, known for its exceptional early years education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 4-day work week, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values growth, teamwork, and responsibility in a fun, dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a supportive and nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification or working towards one, with a passion for outdoor learning.
The predicted salary is between 13.9 - 13.9 £ per hour.
Application Deadline: 31 August 2026
Department: Early Years Educator
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Muddy Boots Wilberfoss
Reporting To: Nicola Duckworth
Compensation: £13.50 - £13.90 / hour
Description
Early Years Educator - Preschool Room - age 2.5 years old up to starting reception at school
Muddy Boots Nursery, Wilberfoss YO41 5ND
£13.50 – £13.90 per hour (age 21+)
Full-time (4-day week)
Looking for better work–life balance in early years? 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, Wilberfoss, 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 who are ready to grow and develop their career within our nursery group. Real career development – many of our team members progress into Room Leader, Third in Charge and Deputy Manager roles as they grow with us.
We’re now looking for a passionate Early Years Educator to join our team, working in a nurturing, supportive environment where people genuinely matter.
Key Responsibilities
About the role — As an Early Years Educator in our Toddler Room at Muddy Boots, you’ll play a vital role in delivering high‑quality, nature‑based learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence and independence to our youngest children.
- 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:
- 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
Why work at Muddy Boots? We know that when educators 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 £13.90 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.
Early Years Educator - Preschool Room (up to £13.90 21yrs+) employer: Muddy Boots Nursery
Muddy Boots Wilberfoss is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment for Early Years Educators. With a focus on work-life balance through a 4-day working week, competitive pay in the top 10% locally, and clear career progression opportunities within our award-winning outdoor nursery, we prioritise the wellbeing and growth of our team members. Join us to be part of a values-driven community that celebrates outdoor learning and fosters meaningful relationships with children and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Educator - Preschool Room (up to £13.90 21yrs+)
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We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Educator - Preschool Room (up to £13.90 21yrs+)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Muddy Boots Nursery, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Muddy Boots Nursery
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Muddy Boots Nursery might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
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Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Muddy Boots Nursery.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
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Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
