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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in a nurturing nursery environment.
- Company: Join the vibrant Red Bus Downend, part of the Chalk Nursery Group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days leave, wellbeing support, and discounted childcare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in an outstanding nursery.
- Qualifications: Level 2 qualification in early years and experience with additional needs required.
- Other info: Enjoy ongoing training, a supportive team, and a unique working environment.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Job Details
Type: We have a rare and rewarding opportunity for a SEND Support Practitioner to support the Nursery SENCO in delivering exceptional care and tailored support to children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This diverse role involves working across all age groups in the nursery, providing targeted one‑to‑one support, planning and leading small intervention groups, and building strong partnerships with parents and families. You will play a key part in identifying and addressing children’s emerging additional needs and will contribute to a nurturing, inclusive learning environment.
Closing Date: 2026‑02‑28
Reference: VA289
Location: Red Bus Downend, Downend, Bristol, BS16, United Kingdom
Job Type: 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday, between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm (hours may be negotiable for the right candidate).
Salary: £13.65‑14.04 per hour (depending on qualifications & experience)
About Us
We are proud to be part of the Chalk Nursery Group, a growing family of high‑quality early years settings. At Red Bus Downend, we are passionate about providing a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment for children aged 3 months to 5 years, where they can learn, explore and thrive.
Red Bus Downend is a vibrant, four‑storey nursery in a beautifully restored former maternity hospital. Every floor features bright, character‑filled rooms, from sensory spaces to a glass yurt and a unique Curiosity Room. With landscaped gardens, excellent facilities, and space for both children and staff to thrive, it’s a truly special place to work. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
About the Role
We have a rare and rewarding opportunity for a SEND Support Practitioner to support the Nursery SENCO in delivering exceptional care and tailored support to children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
This diverse role involves working across all age groups in the nursery, providing targeted one‑to‑one support, planning and leading small intervention groups, and building strong partnerships with parents and families. You will play a key part in identifying and addressing children’s emerging additional needs and will contribute to a nurturing, inclusive learning environment.
Responsibilities
- Work closely with the Nursery SENCO, SEND Champions, Key Workers, and external professionals to support children with SEND.
- Provide 1:1 support and deliver group interventions tailored to individual support plans and, where needed.
- Build empathetic, trusting relationships with children and their families.
- Manage your own diary and workload to prepare support plans collaboratively with parents.
- Assist with funding applications and contribute to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
- Apply the principles of the Graduated Approach and demonstrate independence in planning and delivering interventions.
What We’re Looking For
- A minimum of a Level 2 full & relevant qualification in early years – this is essential
- Experience working with children with additional needs is essential.
- SENCO qualification is desirable, or a willingness to complete the qualification.
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
- A positive, proactive attitude and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Commitment to providing high‑quality, inclusive early years education.
What We Offer
- A competitive salary and benefits package.
- 28 days of annual leave (plus 3 days paid time off at Christmas).
- Regular staff social events and recognition initiatives.
- Free access to expert wellbeing support, daily check‑ins, and virtual health consultations via the Symbio app.
- Discounted childcare.
- Full uniform provided.
- Ongoing training and development opportunities.
- A genuinely supportive team and leadership structure.
Additional Information
- All positions are subject to an enhanced DBS check.
- Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
- We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children – all staff are expected to share this commitment.
Apply today!
If you’re ready to be part of something special and help shape the future of our children, apply today and join the Red Bus journey!
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SEND Support Nursery Practitioner employer: Red Bus Nursery & Pre-School
Contact Detail:
Red Bus Nursery & Pre-School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Support Nursery Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at Red Bus Downend. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the nursery's values and approach to SEND support. We want to see how you can fit into our vibrant environment and contribute to our mission of nurturing every child's potential.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for inclusive education during your interview. Share specific examples of how you've supported children with additional needs in the past. We love hearing about your hands-on experience!
✨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 being part of our special team at Red Bus Downend.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Support Nursery Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with children who have additional needs. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant qualifications and experiences!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely excited about supporting children with SEND. Share any personal stories or experiences that fuel your passion for this important work.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our nursery and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at Red Bus Nursery & Pre-School
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with the principles of the Graduated Approach and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past roles. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about supporting children with additional needs.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key in this role, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with children, parents, and colleagues. Think about specific situations where your communication made a difference, especially in building trusting relationships with families.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This position requires collaboration with various professionals, so be ready to talk about your experience working in a team. Share examples of how you've contributed to a supportive environment and worked alongside others to achieve common goals, particularly in relation to SEND support.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions during your interview. Think about potential challenges you might encounter while supporting children with SEND and how you would address them. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and proactive attitude, which are crucial for this role.
