At a Glance
- Tasks: Create a fun and structured learning environment for preschool children.
- Company: St Jude’s Catholic Primary School, a vibrant community focused on growth and learning.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Other info: Join a friendly team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's early education and emotional development.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Early Years/Childcare and a passion for teaching young children.
The predicted salary is between 24612 - 27160 £ per year.
The governors of St Jude’s are seeking to appoint an Early Years Practitioner in our Early Years Unit. The successful person will be based primarily in our preschool, with support from other members of Early Years, our Reception teacher, the EYFS Lead and other practitioners. Our preschool is a vibrant and fun place which welcomes children at the very start of their learning journey. Children find warmth, welcome and a wealth of opportunities in our setting and you will become an important part of their experience. We have a wonderful indoor and outdoor area plus access to other outdoor spaces. We are looking for someone who knows the importance of how a successful Early Years journey can set a child on the right path, both educationally and emotionally. The successful candidate should have a passion for creating a structured learning environment and a determination to ensure all children succeed to the best of their ability. Our catholic values and ethos are central to our school life, ensuring that "Together, we learn, love and grow with Jesus".
Qualifications and Requirements
- Hold a minimum Level 3 full and relevant qualification in Early Years/Childcare (see DfE criteria).
- Hold a valid paediatric first aid certificate or be willing to receive training.
- Be an enthusiastic practitioner with a real passion for early years education of 3- and 4-year-olds.
- Have a secure subject knowledge of the Early Years handbook and expectations.
- With direction from the reception teacher, be responsible for the day to day management of the room, including supervision of children and staff.
- Have high expectations of achievement and behaviour, including supporting children’s self-regulation.
- Provide feedback to parents in relation to children’s progress and achievement.
- Be positive, pro‑active and have the ability to reflect and improve.
- Play a full part in the wider life of school.
Benefits
- An exciting opportunity to grow a dynamic preschool environment.
- A commitment to your CPD and future career path.
- A friendly, fun and dedicated team of colleagues in a supportive but highly demanding workplace.
The opportunity to visit school, meet the staff and have a tour will take place on Tuesday 2nd June at 9.30am (booking is not required). Completed application forms should be returned to enquiries@saintjudes.wigan.sch.uk. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As part of our safer recruitment procedures, we conduct social media searches on all shortlisted candidates. The successful candidate will have to meet the requirements of the Person Specification in order to be offered the post and will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. Our recruitment privacy policy can be found at https://www.saintjudes.wigan.sch.uk/vacancies/. If you require any further information, please contact the school on Tel: 01942 204091. E‑mail: enquiries@saintjudes.wigan.sch.uk. Website: https://www.saintjudes.wigan.sch.uk/. Closing date: Monday 8th June 2026. Interview date: To Be Confirmed. This position is subject to Enhanced Disclosure Procedures plus child barred list check. The employer is committed to safeguarding.
Early Years Practitioner in Wigan employer: Saintjudes
St Jude’s Catholic Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and vibrant environment for Early Years Practitioners to thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development and a supportive team culture, employees are encouraged to grow in their careers while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young children. Located in Wigan, the school provides a unique opportunity to work within a community that values education, faith, and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner in Wigan
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around St Jude’s website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their values and ethos, especially how they integrate Catholic principles into their teaching. This will help you connect your passion for early years education with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! During the interview, be ready to share specific examples of how you've created engaging learning environments in the past. Talk about your experiences with 3- and 4-year-olds and how you’ve supported their emotional and educational journeys.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Don’t just wait for them to ask if you have any queries. Show your enthusiasm by asking about their preschool's approach to learning and how they support staff development. This shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that keeps you on their radar and reinforces your interest in the role. Plus, it’s a great way to show your professionalism!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner in Wigan
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 how much you care about creating a nurturing environment for children and how you can contribute to their learning journey.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Highlight your relevant qualifications and experiences that align with what we’re looking for at St Jude’s.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly 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 to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details and forms there to make the process smooth.
How to prepare for a job interview at Saintjudes
✨Know Your Early Years Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years handbook and expectations. Being able to discuss specific practices and how they benefit children's learning will show that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the role.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to creating a nurturing and structured learning environment for young children.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle certain situations in the preschool setting. Think about examples where you've supported children's self-regulation or provided feedback to parents, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Embrace the School's Values
Familiarise yourself with St Jude’s Catholic values and ethos. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their mission of helping children 'learn, love, and grow with Jesus' in your approach to teaching and interaction with students.
