Nursery Lead Practitioner or Full and Relevant Level 6 Equivalent

The Methodist Church in Britain; Maidenhead; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Welcoming and supportive team

Outdoor woodland learning environment

Career progression in nursery

Job summary

Woodlands Park Primary School is seeking a Nursery Lead Practitioner to head the nursery and drive play-based learning for the youngest children. You will champion outdoor exploration in the woodland area and work closely with parents and colleagues to nurture development.

The role requires a Level 6 Early Years qualification (or equivalent) and is designed to support high standards of care, safeguarding and assessment. DBS checks and UK work eligibility are required.

Qualifications

• Level 6 Early Years qualification or equivalent full and relevant qualification.
• Experience as an early years practitioner.
• Enhanced DBS check and eligibility to work in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day provision within the nursery.
• Create an engaging environment supporting children's interests and independence.
• Plan and deliver high-quality learning based on children's needs and development stages.
• Champion outdoor learning and utilise woodland environments for learning.
• Build strong partnerships with parents and carers through clear communication.
• Support children's assessment and development through observation and responsive planning.
• Work with colleagues to maintain high standards of care, education and safeguarding.
• Collaborate with the Early Years Leader to deliver phase events and curriculum development.

Education

Level 6 Early Years qualification / EYTS / EYPS / QTS

Job description

This Nursery Lead Practitioner post sits within the nursery of Woodlands Park Primary School, leading provision for the youngest children. The role centres on planning play-based learning, supporting assessment through observation and working with parents and colleagues. What sets it apart is the woodland area, which the post-holder would champion as a space for outdoor exploration. Applicants need a Level 6 Early Years or equivalent qualification, visa sponsorship is not available, and the post starts November 2026 or sooner.

What the job involves

• Lead the day-to-day provision within the nursery
• Create an engaging environment that supports children's interests and independence
• Plan and deliver high-quality learning based on children's needs, interests and developmental stages
• Champion outdoor learning and make the most of natural environments for learning
• Build strong partnerships with parents and carers through clear communication
• Support children's assessment and development through observation and responsive planning
• Work with colleagues to maintain high standards of care, education and safeguarding
• Work with the Early Years Leader to deliver phase events and develop the curriculum

What’s required

Qualifications

• Level 6 Early Years qualification, EYTS, EYPS or QTS, or equivalent full and relevant qualification

Experience

• Experienced early years practitioner

Skills & knowledge

• Strong understanding of child development and the Early Years Foundation Stage
• Delivering high-quality, child-initiated, play-based learning
• Understanding of sustained shared thinking and high-quality adult-child interaction
• Calm, nurturing approach that puts children's wellbeing first
• Warm, professional relationships with children, families and colleagues

Checks & eligibility

• Enhanced DBS check
• Eligible to work in the UK
• Satisfactory references and safer recruitment checks

Other

• Genuine enthusiasm for outdoor learning
• Leads by example with high expectations
• Committed to an inclusive environment where every child can thrive

What’s offered

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• A welcoming and supportive team
• An established learning environment
• A beautiful outdoor environment, including woodland learning opportunities
• The chance to develop exciting nursery provision
• The chance to be involved in building and promoting the nursery