Nursery Practitioner

Abacus Ark; City Of London; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A child-focused nursery organization in London is seeking a qualified Nursery Key Teacher to lead early learning initiatives. The ideal candidate will be passionate about education, have strong communication skills, and possess a CACHE Level 2 or 3+ qualification. This full-time role offers a vibrant work environment with opportunities for professional growth and a salary range of £27,000 to £32,000 based on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

32 Days Annual Leave

Medical Cashback Plan

Training & Development

Mentorship & Support

Mental Health Support

Paid DBS Check

Company Pension and Events

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in a nursery or early years setting.
• Ability to provide three referees.
• Basic understanding of health and safety regulations in childcare.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily routines and learning plans.
• Observe and assess children's progress.
• Motivate team and build positive classroom culture.

Skills

Passion for early years education

Excellent communication skills

Team ethic

Education

Level 2 or 3+ CACHE/NVQ in childcare

Diploma of Higher Education (preferred)

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Nursery Key Teacher (CACHE Level 2+ qualified ONLY)

Location: Abacus Ark Nurseries- (Wandsworth, Clapham Junction, Earlsfield, Maida Vale)

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent (40 hours per week over 4 days 3 days off per week)

Salary: £27,000 £32,000 (depending on qualifications and experience)

About Us

Abacus Ark Nursery is a family-owned and operated nursery school devoted to the well-being and development of children. Our child-focused team is passionate about delivering the highest quality of care and education. Our nursery offers a vibrant and welcoming environment where children feel safe, loved, and inspired to learn. We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated Nursery Practitioners to join our team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children! At Abacus, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally.

What You ll Enjoy

• 32 Days Annual Leave: Including 4 personal wellbeing days and 8 bank holidays
• Medical Cashback Plan: Health Shield plan worth over £1,000 annually, covering everyday health costs like dental, optical, and therapies
• Training & Development: Ongoing courses in First Aid, Safeguarding, and more plus access to our self-paced learning platform, Flick.
• Mentorship & Support: Learn from experienced early years educators and receive regular guidance and feedback
• Mental Health Support: Access to resources and a workplace culture that prioritises wellbeing
• Paid DBS Check: We cover the cost, so you can focus on what matters
• Company Pension and Events: Including social activities that help you feel part of a community

What You ll Be Doing

As a Key Teacher, you ll play a central role in a child s early learning journey. You ll lead your room s daily routines and learning plans, ensuring each child feels safe, supported, and inspired to grow. You ll also help guide your colleagues, collaborate with parents, and maintain high standards across all areas of care and education.

Your Responsibilities Will Include

• Designing and implementing engaging routines and learning experiences in line with the EYFS
• Creating a safe and stimulating environment, while managing risk assessments and individual child health needs
• Observing and assessing children\'s progress, tracking against EYFS milestones
• Building strong partnerships with parents through consistent, professional communication
• Supporting junior staff and working collaboratively with senior leadership
• Motivating your team and helping to build a positive, high-energy classroom culture

What We re Looking For

We re seeking someone with a passion for early years education and a proactive, nurturing approach. You ll be confident leading a classroom and supporting others, with a genuine commitment to providing the best experience for every child.

Requirements

• Level 2 or 3+ CACHE/NVQ in childcare (or equivalent)
• Ability to obtain a clear enhanced DBS check (paid for by us)
• Right to work in the UK
• Ability to provide three referees
• Preferred: Diploma of Higher Education
• Experience working with children in a nursery or early years setting
• A strong team ethic, patience, and excellent communication skills
• Basic understanding of health and safety regulations in childcare

Working Hours

• Full-time: 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday)
• Our nurseries operate 50 weeks per year, from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm

Ready to Apply?

If you\'re passionate about early years education and ready to take the next step in your childcare career, we d love to hear from you. Join a nursery where your work has meaning and where your growth is as important as the children s.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits

• Company events
• Company pension

Education:

• Diploma of Higher Education (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person