Early Years Practitioner

Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool; Brentwood; On-site; GBP 26,657 - 32,581; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Childcare discount of 50% for first child

Enhanced parental leave

20 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Pension

Financial and wellbeing benefits

Professional development programme access

Job summary

Bright Horizons Early Education & Preschool is seeking Level 2 & 3 Early Years Practitioners for its new 88-place nursery opening in Brentwood in November 2026. You will plan and implement engaging activities to foster children's development, creating a safe and inclusive environment. The role offers a salary starting from £29,619.20 per annum, along with benefits like a 50% childcare discount, enhanced parental leave, and various professional development programs.

Qualifications

• Full and relevant Level 2 or above Early Years qualification.
• Passion for creating fun and inclusive learning environments.
• Strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• Strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection.
• Ability to develop trust and strong working partnerships with both colleagues and parents/carers.

Responsibilities

• Plan, create, implement and reflect on engaging activities for children's development.
• Create a safe environment that allows children to express themselves and engage their minds.

Skills

Creating fun and inclusive learning environments

Understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection

Education

Full and relevant Level 2 or above Early Years qualification

Job description

Nursery – Bright Horizons Brentwood Day Nursery & Pre School

Salary – from £29,619.20 per annum (dependent on qualification/s and experience)

Location – Coptfold Road, Brentwood, CM14 4BN

We are looking for Level 2 & 3 Early Years Practitioners to join our brand-new 88‑place nursery opening in November 2026 in central Brentwood, just a short distance from the Baytree Shopping Centre. Currently undergoing extensive renovations, the setting is being thoughtfully designed to create a warm, welcoming environment where children can thrive. The nursery will feature a wraparound garden, giving children the opportunity to access outdoor spaces throughout the day. With onsite parking available and Brentwood station just a short walk away, this is an exciting opportunity to join a new setting in a fantastic location.

Benefits

• from £29,619.20 per annum
• Childcare discount of 50% for first child
• Enhanced parental leave
• 20 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and paid Christmas closure. Ability to also purchase additional leave*
• Pension
• Financial and wellbeing benefits including 24/7 virtual GP appointments, early access to wages, and more
• Professional development programme access for every stage of your career, including access to a careers coach
• Shift options: 40 hours over 4 or 5 days, 24 hours over 3 days, or 16 hours over 2 days
• Subject to T&Cs

The Role

As an Early Years Practitioner, you will plan, create, implement and reflect on engaging activities, tailored to each of your key children, to encourage their development towards key milestones. You will create a safe environment that allows children the freedom to express themselves, engage their minds, and help to foster a lifelong love of learning.

Qualifications & Experience

• Full and relevant Level 2 or above Early Years qualification
• Passion for creating fun and inclusive learning environments
• Strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• Strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection
• Ability to develop trust and strong working partnerships with both colleagues and parents/ carers

Bright Horizons is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to safer recruitment practice and pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check, which will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all ages and backgrounds to apply. We will consider reasonable adjustments required by applicants. Please note, due to our sector all roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS.