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- 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 commitment to outdoor education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 4-day work week, free lunches, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a values-led team that prioritises wellbeing and professional growth.
- 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 28000 - 29000 £ per year.
Early Years Educator Muddy Boots Nursery, Poppleton YO26 6QD £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 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 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 ResponsibilitiesAs 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.
BenefitsWe 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 (up to £13.90 21ys+) in York employer: Muddy Boots Nursery
Contact Detail:
Muddy Boots Nursery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Educator (up to £13.90 21ys+) in York
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery's values and mission. When you walk in for your interview, show how your passion for outdoor learning aligns with their commitment to high-quality childcare. This connection can really make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some engaging examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in planning outdoor activities and building relationships with families. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! Inquire about their approach to professional development and how they support educators in growing their careers. This shows you're serious about your future with them.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, 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 (up to £13.90 21ys+) in York
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 that highlight your enthusiasm for nature-based learning and how it can inspire children.
Align with Our Values: Make sure to reflect our core values — Heart, Excellence, Growth, Teamwork, and Responsibility — in your application. We want to see how you embody these values in your work and interactions with children and families.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Don’t just list your qualifications; give us the juicy details! Talk about specific situations where you’ve made a difference in an early years setting, especially if it involved outdoor play or child-led activities.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your commitment to joining the Muddy Boots family!
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.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since this role focuses on outdoor education, prepare to discuss your experiences with nature-based learning. If you have any specific activities or projects that highlight your passion for outdoor play and child-led exploration, make sure to mention them during the interview.
✨Prepare Engaging Activity Ideas
Think of a few engaging learning activities that you could implement in an outdoor setting. Be ready to share these ideas during the interview, as it will demonstrate your creativity and ability to plan stimulating experiences for children.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Muddy Boots values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss your experience working collaboratively in a team environment. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues and contributed to a positive atmosphere, as this will show that you're a great fit for their nurturing culture.