Nursery Third in Charge

Royal Air Forces Association; Long Sutton; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Enhanced childcare discount

Healthcare cash back

Virtual GP Health and gym discount

Refer a Friend bonuses

Generous leave over Christmas

Job summary

RAFAKidz Nursery at RAF Odiham, Hook, is seeking a passionate Nursery Third in Charge to lead and coach staff while delivering high-quality early years learning in line with EYFS. A minimum Level 3 EY qualification and Paediatric First Aid are required, with prior Room Leader or Senior Practitioner experience.

You will work closely with the Nursery Manager to support children, families, and colleagues, promoting wellbeing and leadership development within a charitable setting serving RAF

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 Early Years Qualification and Paediatric First Aid certificate.
• Experience as Room Leader or Senior Practitioner.
• Strong understanding of the EYFS and Ofsted requirements.

Responsibilities

• Assist Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager to ensure smooth daily operations and high standards of care and learning.
• Support children through meaningful play and learning experiences that build curiosity and confidence.
• Act as a positive role model, offering guidance and support to colleagues and families.

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.

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.

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