At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's development through fun activities and ensure a safe, nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the UK's largest employee-owned childcare group, recognised as a World’s Happiest Workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, career growth, and a chance to co-own your workplace.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Level 2 Early Years Qualification and understanding of safeguarding procedures.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom Hampshire
Job type: Full Time Permanent
Salary: Up to £12.87 per Hour
Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?
At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve 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 over 30 nurseries across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. With opportunities for Apprenticeship, Nursery practitioners, Nursery Managers & Casual staff, we are always looking for passionate individuals to join us.
We’re 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 Practitioner supports the educational and social development of children up to age five. Key duties include ensuring a safe learning environment, helping children develop social and behavioural skills, and engaging them in age‑appropriate play. By joining us, you'll work with a passionate team dedicated to providing care, warmth, and kindness.
About The Nursery
Tops Southsea Nursery is a 60‑place Day Nursery & Pre‑School situated in Bruce Road, Southsea. The nursery runs several extra‑curricular activities including Tops Forest School, cooking school, Boogie Mites, yoga, meditation and much more!
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 as part of our family.
- 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
- A generous holiday allowance – including your birthday off & a wellbeing day!
As well as many more exciting benefits! You can view the full list on our page or Careers website!
What does the role involve?
- Providing day‑to‑day care, including feeding, changing diapers, and helping children with toilet training. They also ensure a safe, clean, and stimulating environment.
- Developing and leading fun, age‑appropriate activities that promote learning and development, focusing on key areas like social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills.
- Observing children’s development and identifying any areas of concern. They help children develop their motor skills, language, and social interactions through play and structured learning.
- Ensuring that children are safe and emotionally supported. They create an atmosphere that encourages children to explore and learn independently.
- Keeping records of each child’s progress, including documenting milestones, behaviours, and developmental needs. This is often part of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework in the UK.
- Maintaining regular communication with parents or guardians about their child’s progress, needs, and any concerns that arise.
What are we looking for?
- A minimum of a Level 2 Early Years Qualification is required.
- Have a strong understanding of safeguarding procedures.
Important Safeguarding Information
Because this role involves regulated activity with children, all candidates must:
- Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service. If you don’t yet have one, you’ll need to cover the cost.
- 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 2 in Southsea employer: Tops Day Nurseries
At Tops Day Nurseries, we pride ourselves on being the UK’s largest employee-owned childcare group, where every team member is valued as a co-owner. Located in Portsmouth, our nurturing work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering opportunities to develop your skills while making a meaningful impact on children's lives. Join us in a supportive environment recognised as one of the World’s Happiest Workplaces, where your contributions are celebrated and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Practitioner-Level 2 in Southsea
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Tops Day Nurseries often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Practitioner-Level 2 in Southsea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tops Day Nurseries
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Tops Day Nurseries. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Tops Day Nurseries.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Tops Day Nurseries.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Tops Day Nurseries.