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- Tasks: Create a nurturing environment and engage children with fun learning activities.
- Company: Join Cognita, a global leader in independent education with a supportive community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, pension scheme, subsidised lunches, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for career growth and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a vibrant setting.
- Qualifications: Energetic and caring individuals with early years qualifications and experience.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 ÂŁ per year.
About the School
King's School and Nursery in Plymouth is a co‑educational independent school for children aged 8 months up to 11 years. The school offers a warm and nurturing environment that encourages children to aim high and develop good manners, thoughtfulness, self‑confidence and self‑discipline.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education, operating 90 schools in 21 countries. Our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
About the Role
Permanent part‑time Nursery Practitioner (Lunch Cover). Coverage is typically 5 days a week, 4 hours per day (11:30 – 15:30), totaling 20 hours. Overtime may be required as needed. This role is not term‑time only; the nursery continues to provide care during all school terms, except Christmas and bank holidays.
Responsibilities
- Create a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 0‑3; support occasional work with children up to 11 years.
- Plan, deliver and assess engaging learning activities within the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.
- Carry out observations, support children’s development and wellbeing, encourage curiosity.
- Communicate with parents, carers and colleagues; contribute to a warm, inclusive nursery community.
- Support wider school events, staff meetings and training days as required.
Qualifications & Experience
- Caring, energetic and reliable early years professional; ideally NVQ Level 2, CCLD, NNEB, CACHE or equivalent.
- Experience working in an early years setting; good communication with children and adults.
- Understanding of safeguarding, inclusive practice and the Key Person system.
- Hands‑on, adaptable, confident in supporting children’s development through creative and structured activities.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
- Enrolment in the company pension scheme.
- Subsidised lunch during term time.
- Free parking on site (subject to availability).
- School fee discount.
- Exclusive third‑party discounts.
- Ongoing professional development.
Application Process
Complete the application before the closing date: 29th May 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect. Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date.
Nursery Assistant (Lunch Cover 5 days x 4hrs - Qualified) employer: The King's School
Contact Detail:
The King's School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Assistant (Lunch Cover 5 days x 4hrs - Qualified)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research King's School and Nursery, their values, and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a recommendation!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how your experience aligns with the role. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've created nurturing environments or supported children's development in previous roles.
✨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 serious about joining the Cognita family!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Assistant (Lunch Cover 5 days x 4hrs - Qualified)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about creating a nurturing environment and supporting their development.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in early years settings. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about sharing specific examples of your work with children.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key skills and experiences are easy to spot. This helps us get a quick understanding of what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The King's School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. Brush up on how to create engaging learning activities and understand the importance of observations in supporting children's development. This will show that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about early years education.
✨Show Your Caring Side
During the interview, highlight your experience in creating a nurturing environment. Share specific examples of how you've supported children's wellbeing and development in previous roles. This will help demonstrate that you align with the school's values of thoughtfulness and self-discipline.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Since communication is key in this role, practice how you’ll engage with parents, carers, and colleagues. Think of scenarios where you’ve successfully communicated important information or resolved issues. This will showcase your ability to contribute to a warm, inclusive nursery community.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Prepare for situational questions that might come up during the interview. For example, think about how you would handle a child who is upset during lunch or how you would plan an activity that encourages curiosity. This will help you demonstrate your hands-on approach and adaptability in real-life situations.