Nursery Practitioner

Abacus Ark; Hounslow; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-owned nursery school in England seeks a passionate Nursery Key Teacher to guide children's early learning. The role involves creating engaging routines, assessing progress, and collaborating with parents while providing a supportive environment. Ideal candidates need Level 2 or 3+ CACHE qualification and experience in early years settings.

Benefits

4-day work week

32 days annual leave

Medical cashback plan

Training & development opportunities

Mentorship from experienced educators

Mental health support

Paid DBS check

Company pension and social events

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in a nursery or early years setting.
• Ability to obtain a clear enhanced DBS check (paid for by us).
• Ability to provide three referees.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement engaging routines and learning experiences.
• Create a safe and stimulating environment with individual child health needs.
• Observe and assess children's progress against EYFS milestones.

Skills

Passion for early years education

Excellent communication skills

Teamwork

Understanding of health and safety regulations

Education

Level 2 or 3+ CACHE/NVQ in childcare

Diploma of Higher Education (preferred)

Job description

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:
A 4-Day Work Week: Full-time hours across 4 days, giving you that day off each week to rest, recharge, or pursue personal passions.
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 over 4 days (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

Pay: £27,000.00-£32,000.00 per year