Nursery Assistant

Durham County Council; Spennymoor; Hybrid; GBP 12,000 - 15,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

LG Pension Scheme

27 days leave

Job summary

Durham County Council is hiring two Nursery Assistants to deliver high-quality childcare for babies and children aged 0-5. One permanent role is 26 hours per week and a temporary maternity cover role is 16 hours per week, with hybrid work options where applicable.

Successful applicants will have Level 3 Early Years qualifications, safeguarding knowledge, and experience with SEN. DBS check will be required. Interviews starting week of 19 October 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience in Early Years Foundation Stage.
• Solid safeguarding procedures knowledge.
• Knowledge and practical experience of children with SEN.

Responsibilities

• Lead engaging activities for 0-5 years indoors and outdoors.
• Create a welcoming environment and promote parent involvement.
• Uphold high hygiene standards for children and premises.
• Support independence in a nurturing group setting.
• Maintain accurate records of children’s progress.
• Observe and assess learning in line with EYFS.

Skills

EYFS experience

Safeguarding knowledge

SEN experience

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification in Childcare and Education

Job description

Are you passionate about delivering exceptional childcare services? If so, this role is for you!

We are seeking 2 dedicated and enthusiastic Nursery Assistants to join our team and provide high-quality care for babies and children.

We are looking for a permanent Nursery Assistant to work 26 hours per week and a temporary Nursery Assistant to work 16 hours per week covering a maternity leave until October 2027.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

• Lead Engaging Activities:Assist in creating and delivering a stimulating range of indoor and outdoor activities tailored to children aged 0-5 years.
• Foster a Welcoming Environment:Ensure parents feel comfortable and involved by encouraging their participation and fostering open communication.
• Maintain High Standards:Uphold excellent hygiene standards for children, equipment, and the premises.
• Promote Independence:Support children in developing their independence and individuality within a nurturing group setting.
• Record Keeping:Maintain accurate records of children’s progress and activities.
• Monitor and Assess:Observe, monitor, and assess children’s learning in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

We offer a supportive and collaborative team environment with excellent opportunities for professional development and growth. Join us and make a lasting difference to the lives of children.

WHAT WILL I NEED?

• Previous experience working within the Early Years Foundation Stage.
• A solid understanding of safeguarding procedures.
• A full and relevant level 3 early years qualification in Childcare and Education.
• Knowledge and practical experience of children with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

Please refer to the attached person specification for the full criteria.

If successful you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.

Our commitment to safeguarding:

Durham County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore if successful in your application, an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be sought, inclusive of a check of the Children’s Barred List due to the position working in regulated activity. Applicants should be aware that the DBS check will disclose both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings, in line with current legislation and will confirm whether an individual is barred from working with children, adults, or both.

INTERVIEWS

Interviews will be held week commencing 19th October 2026.

We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.

OUR OFFER TO YOU

We offer a competitive rewards package that includes attractive salaries, a generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (rising to 32 after five years’ continuous local government service), membership of the excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme, and a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working (home and office) where applicable. Explore the full range of rewards and benefits on our website.

Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions.

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION

We are a proud equal opportunities employer and believe a diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and drives service improvement. We welcome applications from everyone and make employment decisions based on skills and ability. As a Disability Confident Leader, we actively encourage applications from disabled and neurodivergent people and offer support throughout the recruitment process.