Senior Practitioner

University of South Hampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Southampton is seeking a Level 2b Senior Practitioner for its Early Years Centre. The role involves supporting the Centre Manager and delivering high-quality early years education in a nurturing environment. Candidates must have a Level 3 qualification in Early Years or Childcare, along with strong communication skills. This position promotes a healthy work-life balance with flexible hours. The role does not qualify for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship.

Benefits

Ongoing training and professional development

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience working in an early years setting.
• Flexibility to work across four days a week.
• Must undergo Enhanced DBS check.

Responsibilities

• Support the Centre Manager in daily operations.
• Deliver high-quality care and education to children.
• Plan and deliver engaging activities for children's development.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Commitment to safeguarding

Education

Level 3 qualification in Early Years or Childcare

Job description

Are you passionate about delivering outstanding early years education and care? Do you thrive in a dynamic, child-centred environment? We are seeking a dedicated Level 2b Senior Practitioner to join our Early Years Centre team, supporting the Centre Manager in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the Centre and delivering exceptional customer service to all EYC families.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and compassionate individual to join our team at the University of Southampton’s Early Years Centre as a Level 2b Senior Practitioner. This role requires commitment, flexibility, and a deep understanding of child development. The successful candidate will support the Centre Manager in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the Centre and delivering exceptional customer service to all EYC families. You will be responsible for the delivery of high-quality care and education, whilst supporting all needs and stages of early development. Your focus will be to create a calm and tranquil space where both children and staff feel safe, secure and content. We want all our families to feel welcomed and at peace, knowing that their little ones are being cared for in the most nurturing and inspiring way.

As a Senior Practitioner, you will build strong, positive relationships with children and their families from the moment of induction. You will support the Centre Manager in maintaining high standards of service and operations and be fully familiar with all routines, procedures, and policies essential to the Centre’s success. You will plan and deliver engaging, balanced, and stimulating activities that support children’s learning and development, integrating assessment into planning and tailoring learning experiences to meet individual and group needs. You will ensure activities are well-resourced and plans are accessible for continuity in your absence, while communicating daily with parents and guardians regarding their child’s progress and well-being. You will maintain high standards of health and safety, hygiene, and cleanliness in all areas of the Centre, and fulfil rota duties and additional tasks professionally and promptly as directed by your line manager. You will embrace opportunities for professional development and reflective practice.

We put the child at the centre of everything we do, always asking “why?” and reflecting on how our actions benefit the child. We believe children thrive when they are happy, relaxed, and having fun, encouraging a natural love of learning and curiosity. Our practitioners take pride in the care they provide, helping to create a compassionate and kind setting for all. Together, we create a calm and tranquil space where children and staff feel safe, secure, and content. We want all families to feel welcomed and at peace, knowing their little ones are being cared for in the most nurturing and inspiring way.

Applicants must hold a relevant Level 3 qualification in Early Years or Childcare and have experience working in an early years setting. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, along with a commitment to safeguarding and child protection. An Enhanced DBS is required. The role requires flexibility to work across four days per week, supporting a healthy work-life balance. In return, you will be part of a passionate and supportive team, make a meaningful impact on children’s early development, access ongoing training and professional development, and work in a vibrant, inclusive, and well-resourced environment.

This role does not qualify for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship. To explore alternative UK visa options, see gov.uk

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on [phone] or [e-mail] quoting the job number.