At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support children with additional needs in a nurturing nursery environment.
- Company: Join YMCA Fairthorne Group, a charity dedicated to community support and child development.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25-30 days holiday, discounts on camps, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic leadership team and contribute to meaningful community initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a supportive and caring culture.
- Qualifications: Level 5 childcare qualification or Level 3 with relevant experience; passion for early years essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
- Early Years Financial Incentive Scheme, we can now offer a£1000 paymentto eligible new or returning staff, funded by the Department for Education
- Refer a Friend Scheme
- Blue Light Card eligibility
- 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days
- Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days per annum)
- Employer pension
- Enhanced Maternity
- Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum
- Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor: campsite, river hire, activities, day camps
- 30% discount on food in Cafes: Fairthorne, Eastleigh and Andover
- Wellbeing assistance programme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Good quality resources and a modern environment
- A welcoming, caring and supportive culture
The YMCA are huge advocates of personal and professional development. When you work with us, you also benefit from:
- Access to 26 online professional development modules
- Attain additional qualifications such as SENCO, Forest School qualification
- Inspiring opportunities to work in different settings and share practice
Job Purpose
The Lead Practitioner is a key member of our nursery leadership team, with a prime focus on supporting children across the setting who have any form of additional need or vulnerability.
The job holder will be expected to observe children and, alongside keypersons, identify children in need of additional support, develop individual education plans, make onward referrals, and support and coach nursery teams to embed high standards of care to meet identified needs.
As part of the leadership team, the Lead Practitioner will also contribute towards the wider nursery improvement plan, coach and develop staff and on occasions deputise in the absence of the Nursery Manager. This post is primarily supernumerary with an expectation that the majority of time will be spent working directly with staff and children, in rooms and the garden.
- Level 5 childcare qualification or Level 3, relevant experience and willingness to train
- Experience of implementing improvements in an early years setting, including demonstrating best practice, coaching staff, setting objectives, and keeping records
- Experience and understanding of child development, behaviour management, SENCO and identified groups of children
- Good knowledge of matters relating to health and safety
- Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding good practice
- Paediatric First Aid qualification or willingness to train
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (level 3 or above) or willingness to train
Successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service.
We are an equal opportunities charity with commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace. A copy of this policy will be made available on request.
Please apply now for this rewarding position and be part of an amazing charity who continue to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.
Lead Practitioner in Andover employer: YMCA Fairthorne Group
At YMCA Fairthorne Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a welcoming and supportive culture, perfect for those passionate about early years education. With generous benefits including 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, enhanced maternity leave, and discounts on camps and food, we prioritise the well-being of our staff while providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the community as a Lead Practitioner, where your contributions will be valued and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Practitioner in Andover
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the YMCA Way and the specific values of our organisation. Understanding our culture and mission will help you align your responses during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to our community-focused approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your experience with children who have additional needs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported these children in previous roles, as this will showcase your expertise and passion for inclusive education.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff members at YMCA Fairthorne Group. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the role and the team dynamics, which can be beneficial when tailoring your approach during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest best practices in early years education and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). Being knowledgeable about current trends and legislation will not only impress during interviews but also show your dedication to professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Practitioner in Andover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in early years settings, particularly any work with children who have additional needs. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in coaching staff and implementing improvements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your genuine enthusiasm for early years education and your passion for supporting vulnerable children. Mention how your personal attributes align with the values of the charity and the role of Lead Practitioner.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications:Clearly list your qualifications, especially your Level 5 childcare qualification or Level 3 with relevant experience. If you have any additional training related to SEND or safeguarding, make sure to highlight that as well.
Prepare for Potential Questions:Think about how you would respond to questions regarding your experience with child development and behaviour management. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support children with additional needs in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA Fairthorne Group
✨Show Your Passion for Early Years Education
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for early years education during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted children's learning and development, especially those with additional needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Coaching Skills
As a Lead Practitioner, you'll be expected to coach and develop staff. Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in mentoring or training others, and how you can inspire your future colleagues to improve their practice.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Individual Education Plans
Familiarise yourself with the process of developing individual education plans (IEPs). Be prepared to talk about how you've used observation and assessment data to identify children's needs and implement effective strategies.
✨Highlight Your Collaborative Approach
Collaboration is key in this role. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully partnered with parents, other professionals, and community services to support children and families, showcasing your ability to build strong relationships.
