Early Years Practitioner

Bright Horizons; Dartford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Childcare discount

Enhanced parental leave

20 days annual leave

Pension

Wellbeing benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Bright Horizons Springfield Lodge Dartford nursery is seeking an Early Years Practitioner to join our welcoming team in Dartford, Kent. You will plan, deliver and reflect on engaging activities that support each child's development within a caring, safe environment.

We value EYFS knowledge, safeguarding expertise and the ability to build trust with colleagues and families, with a commitment to ongoing professional development as part of our supportive workplace.

Qualifications

• Full and relevant Level 3 or above Early Years qualification is required.
• Strong understanding of the EYFS framework and safeguarding requirements.
• Ability to build trust with colleagues and parents/carers.

Responsibilities

• Plan, create, implement and reflect on engaging activities tailored to each child.
• Foster a safe environment that encourages expression and love of learning.

Skills

Passion for learning environments

EYFS knowledge

Safeguarding knowledge

Partnership with parents

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Job description

Nursery – Bright Horizons Springfield Lodge Dartford

Salary

£29,619 - £34,840 per annum (dependent on qualification/s and experience)

Location

Dartford, Kent

Are you looking to work for an organisation whose culture is driven by our HEART principles – Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork? Where you can be yourself, feel supported, and help to make a difference to the next generation? Somewhere you can say: “I did that.”

We’re looking for an Early Years Practitioner to join our Bright Horizons Springfield Lodge Dartford nursery. At our Dartford nursery, we’re proud to offer a spacious outdoor garden and a dedicated on‑site Forest School area, giving children rich opportunities for exploration and learning. Our long‑standing, experienced staff team provides a warm, consistent environment for every child. The setting is conveniently located close to local transport links and also benefits from an on‑site car park for those who drive. We are committed to supporting our team with continual training and clear pathways for progression within their role.

Our Benefits

• £29,619 - £34,840 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.

What we’re looking for

• Full and relevant Level 3 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.

We look forward to receiving your application!

If you experience any problems, please email [e-mail] and we will be happy to help.