Early Years Practitioner

Keele University; Keele; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in the UK is seeking an Early Years Practitioner to provide nurturing care in a supportive nursery environment. Ideal candidates will have NVQ Level 3 in Childcare, experience with young children, and strong communication skills. This permanent role offers full training, access to campus facilities, and a community focused on wellbeing. Join a team committed to supporting children’s growth and development in an inspiring workplace.

Benefits

Full induction and dedicated training

Access to campus facilities

24/7 counselling and wellbeing support

Generous family-friendly policies

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in Childcare required.
• Experience with young children is essential.
• Functional literacy and numeracy skills expected.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe and stimulating environment for children.
• Support children's learning and development programs.
• Contribute to a supportive team environment.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Team spirit

Experience with children aged 12 weeks to 5 years

Functional skills in English and Maths

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Childcare or equivalent

Job description

Early Years Practitioner

CAPTION: Job details

• Posting date: 27 November 2025
• Salary: £13.49 per hour
• Hours: Full time
• Closing date: 15 December 2025
• Location: ST5 5BG
• Remote working: On-site only
• Company: Keele University
• Job type: Permanent
• Job reference: KU00004802

Summary

Are you looking for a role where your workplace is as inspiring as the work you do? Keele University is based in acres of countryside, woodland and gardens and offers a truly unique working environment. Our modern, purpose-built nursery is set within its own secure grounds in the heart of this beautiful campus.

At Keele University Day Nursery, we provide a rich and stimulating learning environment where children are safe, happy, and cared for. We're proud to offer places to 128 children each day, and we're now looking for an enthusiastic Early Years Practitioner to join our dedicated and supportive team.

What You’ll Get

• A full induction and dedicated training to support your development
• Access to Keele's fantastic campus facilities, including shops, cafes, restaurants, and a sports centre
• A supportive community that values wellbeing, offering 24/7 counselling, physiotherapy, holistic therapies, flu vaccinations, and more
• Generous family-friendly policies including enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave and emergency childcare support

What You’ll Need

• NVQ Level 3 in Childcare (or equivalent)
• Experience with children aged 12 weeks to 5 years
• Functional skills in English and Maths (GCSE Grade C or equivalent preferred)
• A team spirit and excellent communication skills

Why Keele?

Our colleagues love working here. They care deeply about our future, thrive in a stimulating environment, and are proud to be part of a university that values its people. Keele is committed to creating a healthy, fulfilling workplace where you can grow both personally and professionally.

Keele University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN charter, and values equality and diversity across our workforce. We strive to ensure that our workforce is representative of broader society, and therefore, we would actively welcome applications from men for this role.

The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible.

In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

Please note this appointment is subject to both medical clearance by the University's Occupational Health provider and a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Disability Confident

We are proud members of the Disability Confident employer scheme. A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job. For more details, please go to www.keele.ac.uk/vacancies