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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with children, support their learning through play, and ensure a safe environment.
- Company: Join YMCA, a charity dedicated to nurturing futures and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25+ days holiday, discounts on nursery fees, and wellbeing programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in early childhood education while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Level 2/3 childcare qualification or relevant experience preferred.
- Other info: Access to online training modules and diverse work opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Benefits to you:
- Joining Bonus! Total of £500
- Early Years Financial Incentive Scheme, we can now offer a £1000 payment to eligible new or returning staff, funded by the Department for Education
- Refer a Friend Scheme
- Health Cash plan
- 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)
- Celebration Leave
- 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 2/3 childcare qualification or 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.
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 continues to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.
Early Years Practitioner employer: YMCA
Contact Detail:
YMCA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Understanding its principles and how they apply to child development will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to high-quality childcare.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends and best practices in early childhood education. Being knowledgeable about innovative teaching methods or recent studies can set you apart from other candidates and show your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the early years sector. Attend local workshops or join online forums to connect with others in the field. This can provide valuable insights and may even lead to recommendations for job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experiences with children during the interview. Think of specific examples where you've successfully engaged with children, supported their learning, or handled challenging situations, as this will showcase your practical skills and suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Early Years Practitioner position. Familiarise yourself with the Early Years Foundation Stage and the specific needs of children aged 4 months to 5 years.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and qualifications that align with the job description. Emphasise any childcare qualifications, experience in early years settings, and your commitment to high-quality childcare.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for early childhood education. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to create a nurturing environment and support children's development through engaging activities.
Highlight Professional Development: In your application, mention any training or professional development you've undertaken related to childcare, such as paediatric first aid or safeguarding practices. This shows your commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to best practices.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA
✨Show Your Passion for Early Childhood Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and your commitment to their development. Share specific examples of how you've engaged with children in the past and how you plan to create a nurturing environment.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Early Years Foundation Stage
Understand the principles and learning goals outlined in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Be prepared to discuss how you would implement these in your daily activities and support children's developmental needs.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
As an Early Years Practitioner, you'll be working closely with co-workers and parents. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles, and emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and support others.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle various situations with children. Think of scenarios where you had to manage challenging behaviour or support a child's emotional needs, and be ready to discuss your approach.
