Early Years Practitioner

YMCA; Southampton; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA Fairthorne Manor Nursery seeks an early years educator to promote a nurturing environment for children ages 4 months to 5 years. The role involves supporting development through engaging activities, observing progress, and ensuring a safe setting. Join us in making a positive impact on children's lives and enjoy numerous professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Joining Bonus: £500

25 days holiday + Bank Holidays

50% discount on nursery fees

Wellbeing assistance programme

Cycle to work scheme

Access to professional development

Qualifications

• Desirable Level 2/3 childcare qualification or relevant experience.
• Understanding of developmental needs and statutory framework.
• Commitment to high-quality childcare.

Responsibilities

• Promote a nurturing environment supporting children's learning.
• Deliver indoor and outdoor activities, recording observations.
• Ensure safety and comply with policies.

Skills

Childcare

Engagement

Observation

Positive Reinforcement

Education

Level 2/3 childcare qualification

Job description

At YMCA Fairthorne Manor Nursery, we believe that everyone should have a fair chance to discover who they are and what they can become. Our approach to early years education is rooted in the belief that every child is unique, and it’s our privilege to support them on their journey of self-discovery and growth, nurturing futures every step of the way.

Benefits to you:

• Joining Bonus! Total of £500
• Refer a Friend Scheme
• Blue Light Card eligibility
• 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days
• Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days per annum)
• 50% discount on nursery fees
• Enhanced Maternity
• Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum
• Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor: campsite, river hire, activities, day camps
• 30% discount on food in Cafes: Fairthorne, Eastleigh and Andover
• Wellbeing assistance programme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Good quality resources and a modern environment
• A welcoming, caring and supportive culture

Key Responsibilities:

• Promote a nurturing environment whilst engaging with children of all ages and developmental skills, encouraging each child to meet his/her potential by supporting them through learning and play with positive reinforcement and praise.
• Support children, co-workers and parents alike; deliver stimulating indoor and outdoor activities; complete and record daily observations for children in your care; and plan their next developmental steps in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage.
• Comply with policies and procedures outlined by the setting.
• Attend training opportunities for personal and professional development as well as the development of the organisation.
• Assist in ensuring that the Nursery is a safe environment for children.
• Embrace the variety of each day, use initiative to keep children engaged and support their emotional needs as they arise.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Level 2/3 childcare qualification or relevant experience is desirable.
• A commitment to providing high-quality childcare including physical care and hygienic practice for children aged 4 months – 5 years.
• Have an understanding of the developmental needs of children, Statutory Framework and relevant legislation.
• Basic knowledge of health and safety.
• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding good practice.
• Paediatric First Aid qualification or willingness to train.

If you’re passionate about early childhood education and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us in nurturing futures and creating a brighter tomorrow for all. Apply now to start your Early Years career.

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.
• Inspiring opportunities to work in different settings and share practice.

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 continues to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.

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Created on 25/06/2025 by TN United Kingdom