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- Tasks: Lead and support children with additional needs in a nursery setting.
- Company: Join YMCA, a charity dedicated to community support and personal development.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25-30 days holiday, discounts on nursery fees, and wellbeing programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Level 5 childcare qualification or Level 3 with relevant experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and training in various qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
25 days holiday, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days. Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days per year). Celebration leave. 50% discount on nursery fees. Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum. Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor. 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.
Requirements:
- 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 employer: YMCA
Contact Detail:
YMCA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with additional needs or vulnerabilities. Understanding the latest best practices in this area will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the YMCA or similar organisations. They can provide valuable insights into the culture and expectations of the role, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in coaching and developing staff. Think of specific examples where you've successfully implemented improvements in an early years setting, as this will be crucial for the Lead Practitioner role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for personal and professional development. Highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've undertaken, and express your eagerness to continue learning, especially in areas like SENCO and safeguarding.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in early years settings, particularly any roles where you've implemented improvements or coached staff. Use specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of child development and behaviour management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for supporting children with additional needs. Mention your qualifications, such as your Level 5 childcare qualification, and how they align with the responsibilities of the Lead Practitioner role.
Showcase Your Understanding of Safeguarding: Include details about your knowledge of safeguarding practices and any relevant training you have completed. If you are willing to train as a Designated Safeguarding Lead, mention this as well to show your commitment to child safety.
Highlight Professional Development: Discuss your eagerness to engage in professional development opportunities, such as the online modules mentioned in the job description. This shows your commitment to continuous improvement and aligns with the YMCA's values.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA
✨Show Your Passion for Child Development
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with additional needs. Share specific examples of how you've supported children's development in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your commitment to their growth.
✨Highlight Your Coaching Experience
Since the role involves coaching and developing staff, be prepared to discuss your experience in mentoring others. Provide examples of how you've successfully guided colleagues in implementing best practices or improving their skills.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Safeguarding Practices
Understanding safeguarding is crucial for this position. Be ready to talk about your knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures, and share any relevant training or experiences that highlight your commitment to keeping children safe.
✨Prepare Questions About Professional Development
The YMCA values personal and professional growth, so come prepared with questions about the training opportunities available. This shows your eagerness to learn and grow within the organisation, aligning with their culture of development.
