Early Years Educator (Full-Time) - 12 Months Fixed Term Contract

Early Years Educator (Full-Time) – 12 Months Fixed Term Contract

Ref Number B28-00169 Professional Expertise Estates, Facilities, Accommodation and Safety Department Finance, Commercial and Estates (B28) Location London Working Pattern Full time Salary £31,904-£35,575 Contract Type Fixed-term Working Type On site Available for Secondment No Closing Date 04-Feb-2026

About us

The UCL Day Nursery is a well-established, inclusive and nurturing setting located in the heart of UCL’s historic Bloomsbury campus. Rated ‘Good with Outstanding Features’ by Ofsted, we provide high-quality care and early education for the children of UCL staff and students. We’re now looking for passionate and professional Early Years Practitioners to join our team.

Why Join Us? Be part of the UCL community – one of the world’s top universities

• Access training and professional development to support your growth
• Work in a diverse, vibrant and inclusive setting that values your contribution
• Contribute to a team that prioritises the wellbeing and happiness of every child
• One of the UK’s most respected nurseries in a world-leading university setting.

For more about the UCL Day Nursery, visit: www.ucl.ac.uk/day-nursery

About the role

Our Nursery Educators are vital in ensuring the smooth running of the nursery, and provide the highest standards of physical, social, emotional, and intellectual care for all of the children at the facility, while ensuring the standard of care and education delivered meets legislative requirements of Ofsted and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

In this role, you will act as a key worker for a small group of children with the responsibility to work in partnership with parents/carers encouraging them to participate in their child’s development. You will play an active part in the day to day operations and organisations of the nursery within agreed policies and procedures and provide a safe, caring and stimulating environment within the Day Nursery, promoting good parent/staff relationships within the group. .

As an Early Years Educator, you\’ll play a key role in providing a safe, caring and stimulating environment for children aged 0–5. You will:

• Act as a Key Worker to a group of children, planning and observing learning through play
• Deliver engaging, child-led activities aligned with the EYFS framework
• Build strong, respectful partnerships with parents and carers
• Promote a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment where every child can thrive
• Support nursery routines, meal times, outdoor play, and learning across all nursery sites.

Please note, the working pattern for this role will be Monday – Friday, either 08.30-16.30 or 09.30–17.30, with a longer day on Thursdays to allow for all-staff meetings.

Please note, this is a full-time fixed term contract for a period of 12-months.

Job Ref: B28-00169

Closing Date: 04-02-2026– 23:59 (UK time)

About you

Applicants will ideally hold a NNEB or NVQ level 3 Early Years and Education or equivalent, and strong experience of providing baby-care in a nursery environment. Candidates who have ample experience working in this field and hold a Level 2 qualification or equivalent may also be considered. A background working with SEN children in a Teaching Assistant/SEN Assistant capacity would be beneficial. Applicants should also have a proactive, imaginative and practical approach to planning and delivering an early years curriculum, excellent communication skills and a commitment to providing the highest level of service to parents and carers. Experience of working with Forest School and knowledge of Reggio Emillio concept is desirable, but not essential.

We’re looking for someone who is energetic, compassionate and committed to delivering exceptional care and education. You’ll need:

• A Level 3 qualification in Early Years and Education (NNEB/NVQ or equivalent)
• Proven experience in a nursery setting working with children 0–5
• A thorough understanding of EYFS, child development and safeguarding practices
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• A flexible and collaborative mindset

Experience with Forest School or Reggio Emilia approaches, and confidence with Ofsted standards, are desirable but not essential.

Apply now if you\’re ready to make a meaningful impact on young lives and thrive in a dynamic university-based nursery, we’d love to hear from you.

Please note, an enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insurance

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.

We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.

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