At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide care and education for babies and young children in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the UK's largest employee-owned childcare group, shaping futures since 1990.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £700 welcome bonus, generous holiday allowance, and up to 60% childcare discount.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your career in a supportive family.
- Qualifications: Must have a Level 3 Early Years Qualification and a passion for child development.
- Other info: Be part of a recognised World's Happiest Workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 29600 £ per year.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Job type: Full Time Permanent
Salary: up to £14.20 Hour
Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week
Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?
At Tops Day Nurseries, we have been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK's largest employee‐owned childcare group, we know that valuing people is the key to success. When you join us, you become more than an employee; you become a co‐owner with a voice, opportunities to grow, and a share in our success.
With 38 nursery sites across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. We are always looking for passionate individuals to join us.
We are proud to be recognised as a World's Happiest Workplace 2025 and one of the Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024).
About the Role
Our Nursery Practitioners look after the educational and social development of babies and young children up to the age of five. Their primary duties include:
- Providing children with a safe environment to learn.
- Helping them to develop basic social and behavioural skills.
- Engaging them in age-appropriate play activities.
You will work alongside other team members who are passionate about providing care, warmth, and kindness to all those who work in our Nurseries.
Locations: Southsea, Copnor
Why You’ll Love Working with Us
At Tops Day Nurseries, we believe in rewarding our team for their hard work and dedication. Here are some of the fantastic benefits you’ll enjoy:
- £700 Welcome Bonus to kick‐start your journey with us (selected locations)
- Relocation support up to £3,000 (T&Cs apply)
- Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
- Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more)
- Health & wellbeing support – NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
- Generous holiday allowance – including your birthday off & a wellbeing day!
What does the role involve?
- Providing day‐to‐day care, including feeding, changing diapers, and helping children with toilet training.
- Ensuring a safe, clean, and stimulating environment.
- Developing and leading fun, age‐appropriate activities that promote learning and development.
- Observing children's development and identifying any areas of concern.
- Keeping records of each child's progress, including documenting milestones, behaviours, and developmental needs as part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
- Maintaining regular communication with parents or guardians about their child's progress, needs, and any concerns that arise.
What are we looking for?
- Minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification.
- Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures.
Important Safeguarding Information
- Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service.
- Be eligible to work in regulated roles – not on the Children's Barred List.
- Successfully complete background and reference checks.
At Tops Day Nurseries, we are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Apply Now
Excited to make a difference? Take the next step in your career and join Tops Day Nurseries.
Nursery Practitioner-Level 3 in Alton employer: Tops Day Nurseries
Contact Detail:
Tops Day Nurseries Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Practitioner-Level 3 in Alton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the childcare sector, attend local events, and join online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get that interview, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through. Share stories about your experiences with children and how you’ve made a positive impact in their lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about scenarios you might face as a Nursery Practitioner and how you’d handle them. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and ready to impress.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities at Tops Day Nurseries right there, so keep an eye out!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Practitioner-Level 3 in Alton
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 their development and well-being!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and qualifications, especially your Level 3 Early Years Qualification. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the role!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, so we can easily 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 for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tops Day Nurseries
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and safeguarding procedures. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and understand the responsibilities that come with it.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your love for early years education. This will help the interviewers see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about making a difference in children's lives.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations involving children. Think about examples from your past experience where you successfully managed challenging behaviours or created engaging activities. This will demonstrate your practical skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the nursery's approach to child development or how they support their staff. This shows that you’re interested in being part of their team and are keen to contribute positively to their environment.