At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver high-quality, nature-based learning experiences for children.
- Company: Join the award-winning Muddy Boots Nursery with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Earn up to £13.40 per hour with great work-life balance and career growth.
- Other info: Opportunities for progression within our growing nursery group across York and Leeds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while enjoying outdoor education.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification or working towards one, with a passion for childcare.
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 Drighlington
Reporting To: Hannah Hare
Compensation: £13.00 - £13.40 / hour
Description
Early Years Educator at Muddy Boots Nursery, Drighlington BD11 1BJ, £13.00 – £13.40 per hour (age 21+), Part-time (3-day week 8am - 6pm).
Looking for better work–life balance in early years? Join our award-winning outdoor nursery, where educators are paid in the top 10% locally, and are supported to grow their careers within our nurseries across York and Leeds. At Muddy Boots Drighlington, 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. Experience in outdoor education is welcomed, but a willingness to learn and grow with us is just as important.
Key Responsibilities
About the role: As an Early Years Educator at Muddy Boots, you’ll play a vital role in delivering high-quality, nature-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence and independence.
- 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
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 £13.40 per hour
- 4-day working week for full-time staff – more time for you with part time offered when available
- 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
Early Years Educator (up to £13.40 21ys+) 3 full days employer: Muddy Boots Nursery
Muddy Boots Drighlington is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment for Early Years Educators who are passionate about outdoor learning. With competitive pay in the top 10% locally, clear career progression opportunities, and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we ensure that our team members feel valued and empowered to grow within our award-winning nursery group. Join us to make a meaningful impact on children's lives while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Educator (up to £13.40 21ys+) 3 full days
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings at places like Muddy Boots!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for outdoor learning! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and ideas about nature-based education. It’ll help you stand out as a candidate who truly aligns with our values.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to early years education. Think about how you can demonstrate your commitment to high-quality childcare and teamwork, which are key at Muddy Boots.
✨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 genuinely interested in joining our amazing team at Muddy Boots.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Educator (up to £13.40 21ys+) 3 full days
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! We want to see your genuine love for outdoor learning and how you connect with children. Share any experiences that highlight your passion.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect our core values: Heart, Excellence, Growth, Teamwork, and Responsibility. We’re looking for candidates who align with these values, so sprinkle them throughout your application!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
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 these and be ready to share examples that demonstrate your commitment to them.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since this role focuses on nature-based learning, prepare to discuss your experiences with outdoor education. If you have specific activities or projects in mind, mention them! If you're new to outdoor learning, express your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
Muddy Boots thrives on teamwork, so be prepared to talk about your experiences working collaboratively. Share instances where you contributed to a team effort or supported colleagues, highlighting your positive and proactive attitude.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the nursery's approach to early years education, career development opportunities, or how they support staff wellbeing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
