Early Years Educator - Level 3

Tops Day Nurseries; Salisbury; On-site; GBP 18,735; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider is seeking a Nursery Practitioner-Level 3 in Salisbury. The role involves caring for children up to five years old, developing educational activities, and maintaining communication with parents. Candidates must possess a Level 3 Early Years Qualification and a strong understanding of safeguarding procedures. This full-time position offers a pay rate of £13.60 per hour.

Qualifications

• Experience in early years education is preferred.
• Willingness to obtain an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day care for babies and young children.
• Develop and lead fun, age-appropriate activities.
• Observe children's development and maintain records.
• Communicate with parents or guardians about progress.

Skills

Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures

Education

Level 3 Early Years Qualification (or equivalent)

Job description

Nursery Practitioner-Level 3 – Tops Day Nurseries

Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom

Pay Range: £13.60 per hour based on skills and experience.

Base pay range

Full‑time permanent position, 40 hours per week.

Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?

At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee‑owned childcare group, we value people and give every employee a voice, growth opportunities, and a share in our success.

With 38 nursery sites across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. We offer apprenticeship, nursery practitioner, nursery manager and casual roles for passionate individuals.

We are proud to be recognized as a World’s Happiest Workplace 2025 and one of the Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024).

About The Role

Our Nursery Practitioners look after the educational and social development of babies and young children up to the age of five. Key duties include creating a safe learning environment, supporting basic social and behavioural skills, and engaging children in age‑appropriate play activities.

About the Nursery

Tops Salisbury Nursery is a 104‑place Day Nursery & Pre‑School located on Odstock Road, Salisbury. The nursery offers extra‑curricular activities such as Tops Forest School, cooking school, Boogie Mites, yoga, meditation and more.

Responsibilities

• Provide day‑to‑day care, including feeding, changing diapers, and toilet training.
• Develop and lead fun, age‑appropriate activities that promote learning and development.
• Observe children’s development and identify any concerns.
• Ensure children are safe, emotionally supported and encouraged to explore independently.
• Maintain records of progress, milestones and behaviours under the EYFS framework.
• Communicate regularly with parents or guardians about child progress and concerns.

What We’re Looking For

• Level 3 Early Years Qualification (or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures.

Important Safeguarding Information

Because this role involves regulated activity with children, all candidates must:

• Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service.
• Be eligible to work in regulated roles (not on the Children’s Barred List).