At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with children through play and learning, promoting their development in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the YMCA, a charity dedicated to supporting communities and nurturing futures.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, discounts on nursery fees, and access to professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your career in early years education.
- Qualifications: Level 3 childcare qualification preferred; passion for early childhood education is essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
25 days holiday + Bank Holidays FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days.
Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days a year).
Blue Light card eligibility.
50% discount on nursery fees.
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, daycamps.
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.
Key Responsibilities:
- Promote a nurturing environment whilst engaging with children of all ages and developmental skills, encouraging each child to meet his/her potential by supporting them through learning and play with positive reinforcement and praise.
- Support children, co-workers and parents alike; deliver stimulating indoor and outdoor activities; complete and record daily observations for children in your care; and plan their next developmental steps in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage.
- Comply with policies and procedures outlined by the setting.
- Attend training opportunities for personal and professional development as well as the development of the organisation.
- Assist in ensuring that the Nursery is a safe environment for children.
- Embrace the variety of each day, use initiative to keep children engaged and support their emotional needs as they arise.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Level 3 childcare qualification and relevant experience is desirable.
- A commitment to providing high-quality childcare including physical care and hygienic practice for children aged 4 months – 5 years.
- Have an understanding of the developmental needs of children, Statutory Framework and relevant legislation.
- Basic knowledge of health and safety.
- Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding good practice.
- Paediatric First Aid qualification or willingness to train.
If you’re passionate about early childhood education and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us in nurturing futures and creating a brighter tomorrow for all. Apply now to start your Early Years career.
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.
- Inspiring opportunities to work in different settings and share practice.
The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service.
We are an equal opportunities charity with a 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 that continues to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.
Early Years Practitioner - Level 2+ in Southampton employer: YMCA Fairthorne Group
At YMCA Fairthorne Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a nurturing and supportive work culture for Early Years Practitioners. With generous benefits such as 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, discounts on nursery fees, and access to professional development opportunities, we empower our staff to grow both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families in our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner - Level 2+ in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to people in the early years sector, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and what drives you in early childhood education. Let them see your enthusiasm for nurturing young minds.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews like a pro! Research the organisation, understand their values, and think about how your skills align with their mission. Practise common interview questions so you can shine when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our amazing team at YMCA.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner - Level 2+ in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for early childhood education shine through. We want to see how much you care about nurturing and supporting children's development!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Early Years Practitioner. Highlight relevant experience and qualifications that align with our job description, so we can see why you're a perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon, so we can easily understand your skills and experiences without getting lost in the details.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding position. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA Fairthorne Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Early Years Foundation Stage and the developmental needs of children. Brush up on relevant legislation and policies, as this will show your commitment to high-quality childcare during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for early childhood education shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your dedication to nurturing children's development and how you’ve positively impacted their learning.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations with children or parents. Think of examples where you've used positive reinforcement or engaged children in stimulating activities, and be ready to discuss these in detail.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask insightful questions about the nursery's approach to child development or training opportunities. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role and eager to contribute to the team.