Sowton Nursery Assistants & Practitioners

Puffins of Exeter Ltd; Telscombe; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider in Telscombe is expanding and seeks enthusiastic Nursery Assistants and Qualified Practitioners to join their team. Candidates will support children's development, plan activities, and communicate with parents. Unqualified roles require no formal qualifications while qualified positions need relevant diplomas and experience. With excellent career progression opportunities and generous benefits, this is a rewarding place to grow in early years education.

Benefits

Career Progression

Free Uniform & DBS Check

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible Working Patterns

Cycle to Work Scheme & Gym Discounts

Generous Holiday Entitlement

Pension Scheme

Qualifications

• No formal qualifications required for Unqualified Nursery Assistants.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in a childcare or educational setting for Qualified Practitioners.
• Paediatric First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Support children's physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities.
• Implement the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.
• Monitor and assess children's progress.

Skills

Understanding of Child Development

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Education

Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Early Childhood Education or equivalent

Job description

Are you passionate about early years education and looking to make a meaningful impact in children’s lives? Puffins Childcare is expanding our Sowton Nursery and we’re looking for enthusiastic, caring individuals to join our team.

Roles Available

• Unqualified Nursery Assistants – Full-time or Part-time
• Qualified Practitioners & Early Years Educators – Full-time or Part-time

About Puffins Childcare

Puffins Childcare is a nurturing and innovative early years provider, open 51 weeks a year (closed for one week at Christmas). We are committed to creating a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment where children aged 4 months to 5 years can thrive.

With six settings across the region, Puffins offers excellent opportunities for career progression and professional development.

Your Role

As a Nursery Assistant, Practitioner, or Early Years Educator, you will:

• Support children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities.
• Implement the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.
• Monitor and assess children’s progress.
• Maintain strong communication with parents and carers.
• Work collaboratively with a supportive team.
• Ensure a safe and nurturing environment for all children.

Qualifications

Unqualified Nursery Assistants:

No formal qualifications required. Training and development opportunities available to help you progress within the company.

Qualified Practitioners & Early Years Educators

• Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Early Childhood Education or equivalent.
• Minimum 1 year of experience in a childcare or educational setting.
• Paediatric First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Enhanced DBS check required.
• Strong understanding of child development and EYFS.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Why Work for Puffins?

We offer a wide range of benefits to support your wellbeing and career growth:

• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance to Room Leader, Deputy, or Centre Manager roles.
• Free Uniform & DBS Check
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Confidential support for staff and their families.
• Financial Support: Pay advances and travel loans available.
• Flexible Working Patterns
• Cycle to Work Scheme & Gym Discounts
• Staff Suggestion Scheme with Rewards
• Generous Holiday Entitlement:
  • 28 days minimum, rising to 33 for senior roles
  • Extra day after 4 years’ service
  • Birthday day off after 1 year’s service
  • Annual Self-Care Day
• Pension Scheme & Paid Bereavement Leave
• Discount Portal: Savings on shopping, travel, food, and more
• Childcare Discount: 50% off non-funded nursery hours
• Long Service Awards
• Team Building & Social Events

How to Apply

If you're ready to inspire and support the next generation, apply now via Indeed.com. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Safeguarding Statement

Puffins Childcare is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment.