Childcare Assistant / Practitioner

Leicestershire County Council; Illston on the Hill; On-site; Part time

Job summary

A local authority council in the United Kingdom is seeking candidates to support children's learning and development in a nurturing environment. The ideal candidate will foster independence and creativity in children aged 2-11, ensuring their safety and well-being while planning engaging activities. Flexible working hours are available for those passionate about early years education, and relevant qualifications or experiences are welcomed.

Qualifications

• Level 2/3 Early Years qualification preferred.
• Relevant experience in Playwork or school settings encouraged.
• Willingness to develop through ongoing professional training.

Responsibilities

• Support children's learning and development across all EYFS areas.
• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children.
• Plan and deliver engaging activities for children.
• Build positive relationships with parents and carers.

Skills

Passion for working with children

Patience

Flexibility

Teamwork

Education

Level 2/3 Early Years qualification

Job description

Responsibilities

• Support the planning and delivery of age‑appropriate, engaging activities that promote children’s learning and development across all areas of the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage).
• Encourage children to develop independence, confidence, and self‑esteem through play and everyday experiences.
• Support the learning needs of children aged 2‑11, adapting activities to suit different abilities and interests.
• Ensure the safety, security, and wellbeing of all children at all times, following safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures diligently.
• Maintain high standards of health, safety, and hygiene within the setting, adhering to the policies and procedures of the setting.
• Support children with personal care when required.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team to plan, prepare, and maintain an inviting, stimulating, and well‑organised learning environment.
• Contribute ideas to enhance play spaces and learning opportunities indoors and outdoors.
• Support colleagues in daily routines including set‑up, tidy‑up, and mealtime supervision.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings as required (four times per year).
• Undertake other appropriate duties as determined by the room leader.
• Build positive relationships with parents and carers, sharing information and celebrating children’s progress.
• Act as a key person for a small group of children—observing, assessing, and planning for their individual needs and interests.
• Keep accurate records and contribute to children’s learning journeys.
• Plan and deliver a range of fun, creative, and inclusive activities for children attending before/after school and during the summer holiday club.
• Promote an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where all children feel valued and engaged.

Key Attributes

• A genuine passion for working with children and supporting their development.
• Patience, kindness, and an approachable manner.
• Flexible and adaptable approach to working across age groups and settings.
• A good use of initiative with a strong team‑work ethic.

Qualifications

Level 2/3 Early Years qualification preferred, but Playwork, school‑based qualifications, or relevant experience are also encouraged to apply. We welcome passionate applicants willing to develop through ongoing professional training.

Terms and Conditions

18‑21 hours per week, worked flexibly across the week according to the needs of the setting.