Level 2/3 Practitioner

Shorefields; Basildon; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

24/7 GP and healthcare advice service

Confidential counselling and wellbeing support

Your birthday off each year

Flexible working patterns

Discounted childcare

Regular team-building events

Additional annual leave entitlement

Job summary

Shorefields in Basildon is seeking a dedicated Level 2/3 Early Years Practitioner to join our childcare team. The successful candidate will help create a nurturing environment supporting children's learning and development, while enjoying career growth opportunities.

This role involves planning engaging activities tailored to each child's needs, observing their development, and maintaining high care standards. We offer extensive training programs, flexible working patterns, and numerous employee benefits like extra leave and healthcare support.

Qualifications

• A minimum of Level 2/3 qualification in Early Years Childcare is required.
• Proven experience in a nursery or childcare setting is essential.
• An understanding of safeguarding principles is critical.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging activities for children's development.
• Supervise children's daily routines and foster a safe environment.
• Build positive relationships with parents regarding children's progress.

Skills

Level 2/3 qualification in Early Years Childcare

Proven experience in a nursery or childcare setting

Understanding of child development and early years education principles

Strong knowledge of safeguarding procedures

Excellent communication skills

Strong organizational and leadership skills

Education

Level 2/3 qualification in Early Years Childcare or equivalent

Job description

Position Start Date: 01/09/2026 Contract Type: Full-time/Part-time Contract Term: Permanent

Application Close: 31/08/2026 Midnight Date of Interviews: 6th - 31st July

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Level 2/3 Early Years Practitioner to join our childcare team. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting children's learning and development, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where every child can thrive.

This is an excellent opportunity to utilise your childcare expertise while developing your career within a supportive setting that values professional growth, high-quality care, and employee wellbeing.

Duties

• Plan and deliver engaging activities tailored to children's individual developmental needs in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• Supervise and support children's daily routines, including play, learning experiences, mealtimes, and personal care.
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment that promotes positive behaviour, confidence, and social development.
• Build positive relationships with parents and carers, communicating effectively about children's progress and wellbeing.
• Observe, assess, and record children's development, identifying next steps in learning.
• Lead by example in maintaining high standards of hygiene, safety, safeguarding, and organisation throughout the setting.
• Support the smooth running of nursery routines, including room organisation, resource management, and team collaboration.
• Mentor and support less experienced team members, demonstrating strong leadership and professional practice.
• Adhere to safeguarding procedures at all times and actively promote the welfare and protection of children.
• Contribute to safer recruitment and safeguarding culture by maintaining professional standards and following nursery policies and procedures.

Skills & Experience

• Level 2/3 qualification in Early Years Childcare (or equivalent).
• Proven experience working within a nursery or childcare setting.
• Sound understanding of child development and early years education principles.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding procedures and child protection responsibilities.
• Understanding of safer recruitment principles and the importance of safeguarding within the workforce.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• Passionate about providing outstanding care and learning opportunities for children.
• DBS Checked and able to go on update service.

What We Offer

We believe in investing in our team and supporting career development. As part of our nursery family, you'll benefit from:

Training & Development

• Paediatric First Aid training.
• Safeguarding and compliance training.
• Clear progression routes and career advancement opportunities.

Employee Benefits

• 24/7 GP and healthcare advice service.
• Confidential counselling and wellbeing support.
• Your birthday off each year.
• Flexible working patterns where possible.
• Discounted childcare.
• Regular team-building events and staff celebrations.
• Additional annual leave entitlement (1 extra day per year).
• Supportive management team and positive working environment.
• Safeguarding Commitment

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references, and safer recruitment procedures.