Early Years Educator (up to £13.90 21yrs+) in Wilberfoss

Early Years Educator at 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, 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.

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. 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

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.

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

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.