Nursery Third in Charge

RAF Association; Hook; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

40% childcare discount

Healthcare cash back

Virtual GP access

Health and stress support

Gym discount

Refer a Friend bonus

Generous leave during Christmas period

Group Associate Membership discounts

Career development opportunities

Guaranteed transfer to another nursery

Job summary

RAFAKidz Nursery at RAF Odiham in Hook is seeking a passionate Nursery Third in Charge. 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.

A strong EYFS and Ofsted understanding will help you create engaging learning experiences while coaching colleagues to reach their full potential. This on-site role focuses on leadership, staff development, and delivering high-quality childcare

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification required.
• Paediatric First Aid certificate required.
• Previous experience as a Room Leader or Senior Practitioner.
• Strong understanding of the EYFS and Ofsted requirements.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Coach and mentor colleagues to deliver high-quality learning experiences.
• Lead engaging play and learning activities that foster curiosity and growth.
• Partner with families to share children’s successes and involve them in learning journeys.
• Promote wellbeing, inclusion and a positive team culture.
• Step into leadership duties when required to maintain high standards.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Child development knowledge

Education

Level 3 EY Qualification

Paediatric First Aid

Job description

Nursery Third in Charge

RAFAKidz Nursery, RAF Odiham, Hook RG29 1QH

£33217 40 hours per week

What you can expect from us

• 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.

About our Third in Charge Role

We'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 difference you will make

• 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.

This is a rewarding role for someone who is passionate about Early Years, enjoys supporting others, and wants to help create a nursery where children feel happy, families feel welcome, and colleagues feel supported to be their very best.

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.