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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support nursery operations and guide staff while ensuring high-quality care for children.
- Company: A nurturing nursery in a beautiful Victorian house with a calm environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free lunch, pension, training, and team events.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and make a real difference in children's early years.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience in a leadership role.
- Other info: Enjoy a four-day working week with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 35000 £ per year.
The nursery is based in a beautiful Victorian house, with spacious, age-specific rooms for toddlers and preschool children and a dedicated outdoor play area. Day-to-day practice is nurturing, with routines that support learning, independence, and school readiness. This role sits between room leadership and management, with shared responsibility for standards, staff support, and operational organisation.
Before You Apply
- This role requires prior experience as a Third in Charge or Room Leader.
- You must have a full and relevant Level 3 (or above) Early Years Qualification.
- This position is not suitable for candidates without leadership experience in a nursery setting.
Key Job Details
- Salary: £31,720 per year
- Hours: 40 hours per week, worked across 4 days
- Setting: Private day nursery
- Age Group: Toddlers and Pre-School
Why This Role Is Worth Considering
- A clearly defined leadership role with shared responsibility, not sole charge
- A stable nursery with established routines and consistent staffing
- A physical environment designed to feel calm and domestic rather than clinical
- Four-day working week
- Benefits including free lunch, pension, training, bonus scheme, length of service rewards, and team events
What You'll Need
- Essential
- Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification
- Proven experience as a Third in Charge or Room Leader
- Confidence supporting staff practice and operational decisions
- Strong working knowledge of EYFS and safeguarding requirements
- Additional safeguarding or leadership training
What You'll Do
- Support the day-to-day running of the nursery alongside senior leaders
- Act as a point of guidance for room leaders and practitioners
- Maintain safeguarding, welfare, and quality standards across the setting
- Contribute to staffing organisation, ratios, and daily decisions
- Step into leadership cover when required
What Happens After You Apply
Applications are reviewed promptly. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. Next steps are clear and handled professionally throughout.
Third In Charge employer: Willingcare
Contact Detail:
Willingcare Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Third In Charge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a Third in Charge role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of EYFS and safeguarding requirements. We want you to feel confident discussing how you can support staff practice and maintain quality standards in the nursery.
✨Tip Number 3
When you get that interview, don’t just talk about your experience—show your passion for nurturing children and supporting your team. Share specific examples of how you've made a positive impact in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s quick and easy, and we’ll keep you updated every step of the way. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team!
We think you need these skills to ace Third In Charge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your previous experience as a Third in Charge or Room Leader. We want to see how you've supported staff and maintained high standards in your past roles, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Use the job description to guide you and make sure to mention your Level 3 Early Years qualification and any relevant training you've completed.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role. Remember, we’re looking for strong candidates who can communicate effectively!
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 Willingcare
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and safeguarding requirements. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just qualified, but also passionate about providing a safe and nurturing environment for children.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your previous experience where you've successfully led a team or supported staff practice. Think about specific situations where you made a positive impact, as this will demonstrate your capability for the Third in Charge role.
✨Understand the Nursery's Values
Research the nursery's ethos and values before the interview. Be ready to explain how your own beliefs align with theirs, especially regarding nurturing independence and school readiness in children. This shows that you're a good fit for their culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about their approach to staff development or how they maintain quality standards. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and eager to contribute to the nursery's success.