Relief Nursery Practitioner

Busy Bees Childcare; Carterton; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery group in the UK is seeking an Early Years Assistant to support child development through engaging activities. This role does not require formal qualifications but values passion and empathy for children's growth. The position offers competitive salary and extensive benefits, including ongoing training and career progression. The nursery features a nurturing environment that encourages community engagement and outdoor learning experiences.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Ongoing professional development

Up to 28 days holiday per year

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to Work scheme

Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required, although prior experience in early years settings is beneficial.
• A passion for working with children and supporting their development.
• Empathy and understanding – each child is unique.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing and delivering educational activities for children.
• Support the team in maintaining a safe and nurturing environment.
• Help children develop socially, emotionally, and physically through engaging play-based learning.
• Ensure the welfare and safety of all children is maintained.

Skills

Empathy

Passion for working with children

Job description

Overview

Join Our Team at Busy Bees – Leading Nursery Group in the UK. Are you passionate about working with children and eager to start your career in early childhood education? As an Early Years Assistant (Unqualified) at Busy Bees, you’ll gain valuable experience in a dynamic environment while helping children grow and develop. This role is perfect for anyone eager to learn and grow in their professional journey, with ongoing support and training to help you succeed in the early years sector.

About Busy Bees: Busy Bees is the UK's leading nursery group, with nearly 400 nurseries across the UK and more overseas. We are dedicated to giving every child the best start in life and are proud to have won awards for our workplace culture. At Busy Bees, we ensure that every member of our team feels heard, valued, and nurtured.

Why Work at Busy Bees? We offer a supportive environment that empowers you to create engaging, educational spaces where children can thrive. You’ll be introduced to our unique Bee Curious curriculum, designed to foster curiosity and confidence in young learners.

Charitable Commitment: Through our partnership with BBC Children in Need, we offer fantastic opportunities for community involvement and fundraising to support children's lives.

About our Nursery: Busy Bees Bicester, rated Good by Ofsted, accommodates 108 children and features a longstanding team dedicated to delivering excellent childcare and preparing children for their futures. We utilise the local church for nursery events, fostering community connections and engagement. Located in a friendly area surrounded by local shops and a primary school, our nursery is also close to a nature reserve, enhancing outdoor learning experiences. With local bus stops within walking distance and just a 10-minute walk to the nearest train station, we ensure easy access for families. Additionally, we offer free parking for staff, creating a convenient and welcoming environment for educators and families alike.

Benefits include: competitive salary; ongoing professional development and career progression; our Hive benefits and wellbeing hub with discounts across retailers; up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays); your birthday off; enhanced family leave and return-to-work bonus; menopause support; financial support; Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders; Cycle to Work; accessible workplace pension; discounted Private Medical Insurance. Access to Hive Benefits and Wellbeing platform with extensive discounts, a Wellbeing Hub, and recognition rewards; Grow with Us development opportunities and training.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing and delivering educational activities for children.
• Support the team in maintaining a safe and nurturing environment.
• Help children develop socially, emotionally, and physically through engaging play-based learning.
• Ensure the welfare and safety of all children is maintained.

Ideal Candidate

• No formal qualifications required, although prior experience in early years settings is beneficial.
• A passion for working with children and supporting their development.
• Empathy and understanding – each child is unique.