At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver high-quality, nature-based learning experiences for toddlers aged 18 months to 2.5 years.
- Company: Join the award-winning Muddy Boots Nursery with a focus on outdoor learning.
- Benefits: Earn up to £13.90 per hour, enjoy a 4-day work week, and receive excellent career support.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a vibrant team culture await you!
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while enjoying a supportive and nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification or working towards one, with experience in early years settings.
The predicted salary is between 13.9 - 13.9 £ per hour.
Early Years Educator - Toddler Room - ages 18 months to 2.5 years old approx. 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
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. 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
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
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
Plus, the opportunity to work in an award-winning nursery that truly lives its values. 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.
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 - Toddler Room (up to £13.90 21yrs+) in Wilberfoss employer: Muddy Boots Nursery
Muddy Boots Nursery is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment where educators can thrive. With a focus on work-life balance through a 4-day week, competitive pay in the top 10% locally, and clear career progression opportunities, we are dedicated to fostering growth and well-being for our team members. Join us in our award-winning outdoor nursery, where your passion for early years education and outdoor learning will be valued and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Educator - Toddler Room (up to £13.90 21yrs+) in Wilberfoss
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take some time to research Muddy Boots and its values. Understanding their commitment to outdoor learning and teamwork will help you connect with the team during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for early years education! When you’re in the interview, share specific examples of how you've engaged children in outdoor play or created stimulating learning experiences. This will demonstrate that you truly align with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Don’t be shy about asking about career progression opportunities or how they support their educators. This shows you’re serious about growing with them and care about your future at Muddy Boots.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the Muddy Boots family right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Educator - Toddler Room (up to £13.90 21yrs+) in Wilberfoss
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning:When writing your application, let your love for outdoor education shine through! Share any experiences you have with nature-based learning or how you plan to incorporate it into your teaching. We want to see that you're excited about inspiring curiosity in our little ones.
Highlight Your Team Spirit:At Muddy Boots, teamwork is key! Make sure to mention any collaborative experiences you've had in previous roles. We’re looking for someone who thrives in a supportive environment, so show us how you can contribute to our positive team culture.
Be Authentic and Personal:Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine in your application! Share your journey in early years education and what drives you to work with toddlers. We value genuine connections, so being yourself will help us see if you’re a good fit for our nursery family.
Follow Our Application Process:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smooth application experience. Make sure to double-check your application for any typos or errors before hitting send. We can’t wait to read your application and hopefully welcome you to the Muddy Boots team!
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 specific examples of how you've demonstrated these in your previous roles.
✨Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since this role focuses on outdoor play and exploration, come prepared to discuss your experiences with nature-based learning. If you have any creative ideas for outdoor activities or ways to engage toddlers in a natural setting, be sure to mention them during the interview!
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Muddy Boots values collaboration, so be ready to talk about your experience working as part of a team. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues or contributed to a positive team environment, especially in early years settings.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the nursery's approach to early years education, opportunities for professional development, and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
