Nursery Third in Charge

RAFA Kidz Ltd; Hook; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Childcare discount

Healthcare cashback

Virtual GP access

Wellbeing support & gym discount

Refer a friend bonus

Generous leave during Christmas period

Household discounts

Job summary

RAFAKidz Ltd in Hook is seeking a Nursery Third in Charge to support the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager, ensuring smooth daily operations for children, families and staff.

You will lead by example, mentor colleagues, deliver high standards of care and learning, and help drive EYFS compliance while developing your career toward Deputy Manager.

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification.
• Paediatric First Aid certificate.
• Experience as Room Leader or Senior Practitioner.
• Strong EYFS knowledge and Ofsted familiarity.
• Enhanced DBS certificate required.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager to ensure smooth daily operations for children, families and colleagues.
• Support children through meaningful play and learning experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence and growth.
• Be a positive role model for colleagues, offering encouragement, guidance and support.
• Partner with families, sharing children's successes and involving them in learning journeys.
• Support wellbeing and development of children and colleagues, ensuring everyone feels valued and included.
• Step into leadership responsibilities when required, maintaining high standards of care and learning.

Skills

EYFS knowledge

Paediatric First Aid

Leadership

Childcare

Education

Level 3 EY qualification

Paediatric First Aid certificate

Job description

£33217 40 hours per week

Enhanced childcare discount of 40% for permanent employees

Healthcare cash back for you and your children to cover prescription, dental and optician costs

Free access to virtual GP

Health and Stress Support plus gym discount

Unlimited Refer a Friend bonus payments

Generous leave with time off to relax and recharge over the Christmas period up to early January

Group Associate Membership – savings and discounts on household bills and more!

Guaranteed transfer to another nursery (for spouses and families being reassigned)

Investment in your career development – you could be our next Deputy Manager!

RAFAKidz is a multi-award-winning nursery group located on, or close to, RAF and MOD stations across the UK, As the charity that supports the RAF community, RAFAKidz was designed to meet the needs of military and civilian families in the community around an RAF station, providing affordable and quality childcare. This means RAFAKidz is focused providing a high-quality service rather than making commercial profit.

Every day, in every one of our nurseries, we provide a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to explore the world around them. By working closely with families and fostering a strong sense of belonging, we create caring, inclusive communities where children are encouraged to be themselves, build meaningful relationships, and flourish every step of the way. Many of our nurseries also offer unique learning environments, including sensory rooms, allotments, and Forest School activities, giving children the opportunity to explore, discover, and learn through nature, play, and hands‑on experiences.

At RAFAKidz, we know that caring for children takes talented, dedicated, and compassionate people. That’s why we’re committed to nurturing our colleagues just as much as the children in our care. We recognise that everyone’s journey is different, and we take the time to support the individual needs, strengths, and aspirations of each member of our team. Whether you’re looking for a new opportunity or returning to the profession after a break, you’ll find a warm welcome and a supportive environment where you can thrive. Through ongoing training, development opportunities, and encouragement every step of the way, we help our practitioners build rewarding careers, grow in confidence, and achieve their ambitions. At RAFAKidz, you’ll be part of a team where you are valued, supported, and inspired to make a real difference every day.

Nursery Third in Charge

Employer: RAFA Kidz Ltd

Salary: £33,217 to £33,217 a year

Contract Type: Permanent

Hours: Full-time 40 hours per week

Location: Hook, RG29 1QH

Responsibilities

Working closely with the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager to ensure each day runs smoothly for children, families, and colleagues.

Supporting children through meaningful play and learning experiences that encourage curiosity, confidence, and growth.

Being a positive role model for colleagues, offering encouragement, guidance, and support whenever it's needed.

Working in partnership with families, sharing children's successes and helping them feel part of their child's learning journey.

Supporting the wellbeing and development of both children and colleagues, helping everyone feel valued and included.

Stepping into leadership responsibilities when required, ensuring high standards of care and learning are always maintained.

Essential requirements

About our Third in Charge RoleWe're looking for a passionate and experienced Early Years professional who is ready to take the next step in their career. You'll hold a minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification and a Paediatric First Aid certificate, with previous experience as a Room Leader or Senior Practitioner. With a strong understanding of the EYFS and Ofsted requirements, you'll help create engaging learning experiences for children while coaching and mentoring colleagues to reach their full potential.

The role requires an Enhanced DBS Certificate.

The RAF Association and RAFAKidz are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme