Relief Nursery Practitioner Level 2

Busy Bees Childcare; Colney; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery group in the UK seeks a Level 2 Qualified Early Years Assistant to support children's development through play-based learning. This role offers a nurturing and flexible work environment with opportunities for professional development. Ideal candidates should have empathy, strong communication skills, and a Level 2 qualification in early years education. Enjoy up to 28 days holiday and several wellness benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Ongoing professional development

Discounts across various retailers

Up to 28 days holiday

Birthday off

Enhanced family leave

Financial support

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to Work scheme

Discounted Private Medical Insurance

Qualifications

• Experience working with children under 5.
• Previous experience as an Early Years Educator or similar role is ideal.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and delivering educational activities.
• Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment.
• Track and report on children’s progress through observations.

Skills

Empathy and understanding

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Education

Level 2 qualification in early years education

Job description

Join Our Team at Busy Bees - Leading Nursery Group in the UK

Take the next step in your career with Busy Bees as a Level 2 Qualified Early Years Assistant. Bring your experience and qualification to a nurturing environment, where you'll support children's development through play‑based learning and activities. This role offers the chance to further develop your skills in early childhood education while enjoying the benefits of a rewarding and flexible work environment.

About Us

Busy Bees is the UK’s leading nursery group, with nearly 400 nurseries across the country and internationally. 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. As part of our team, you will be introduced to our unique Bee Curious curriculum, designed to foster curiosity and confidence in young learners.

Our Charitable Commitment

Through our partnership with BBC Children in Need, we provide fantastic opportunities for community involvement and fundraising to support children’s lives.

About Our Nursery

Located in Norwich Hospital, our Ofsted‑rated Good nursery has a capacity of 118 children and a strong community connection. Sixty percent of our parents are hospital staff, and many longstanding team members have children enrolled. We prioritize well‑being, recently refurbished our garden to enhance outdoor play, and actively encourage family involvement. The nursery is accessed via a bus service that stops just a two‑minute walk away. Staff enjoy free lunch and parking, with flexible options for working four long days and an additional day off, depending on staffing needs during recruitment.

Busy Bees Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Ongoing professional development and career progression
• Our “Hive” benefits and wellbeing hub, with discounts across a huge range of retailers
• Up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)
• Birthday off – our gift to you!
• Enhanced family leave and return‑to‑work bonus
• Menopause support through Peppy
• Financial support through Salary Finance
• Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Easy access to your workplace pension through Cushon
• Discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

We also offer access to our Benefits and Wellbeing platform, Hive, providing huge arrays of retail discounts to help your money go further, along with a Wellbeing Hub featuring resources to support your physical and mental health. A Celebrating You section showcases how we recognise and reward our valued team members, and a dedicated Grow with Us area shares exciting development opportunities and training designed to help you thrive and grow at Busy Bees.

What to Expect as a Relief Early Years Educator

• Assist in planning and delivering educational activities that promote children’s development.
• Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment.
• Take on the role of Key Person, fostering strong partnerships with children and their families.
• Track and report on children’s progress through observations and assessments.

Ideal Candidate

• Level 2 qualification in early years education.
• Experience working with children under 5.
• Empathy and understanding – each child is unique.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.
• Previous experience as an Early Years Educator, Nursery Practitioner, Nursery Assistant or Nursery Nurse does not require – ideal if you have worked in these roles.

Start your rewarding career in early childhood education today – apply now!