Early Years Practitioner L3, Penarth, Cardiff

Early Years Practitioner

Salary: from £13 per hour

Hours: 40 hours per week

Contract: Full‑time, Permanent

Role Purpose

The Early Years Practitioner is responsible for delivering high‑quality early education and care for children aged 0–5, in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Working as part of the room team and under the guidance of the Room Manager, Deputy Nursery Manager and Nursery Manager, the practitioner supports children’s learning, development and wellbeing in a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment.

Key Responsibilities

Childcare and Learning

• Provide high‑quality care, learning and play experiences that support children’s development and wellbeing.
• Create and maintain a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment where children feel secure, valued and supported.
• Plan and deliver age‑appropriate activities in line with the EYFS.
• Observe, assess and contribute to children’s learning and development, supporting next steps.
• Prepare learning environments, resources and activities to support daily routines and planned experiences.

Safeguarding, Health and Safety

• Follow all safeguarding, child protection, health and safety and welfare procedures at all times.
• Support children’s personal care routines, including hygiene, meals and rest, in line with nursery policies.
• Act immediately on any concerns relating to children’s wellbeing, following safeguarding procedures and reporting to a senior member of staff.

Partnership with Parents and Carers

• Greet children and families warmly and professionally each day.
• Build positive, respectful relationships with parents and carers.
• Share information about children’s care and development in line with nursery expectations.
• Support children through transitions, including settling in and room changes.

Teamwork and Professional Practice

• Work collaboratively as part of the room and wider nursery team.
• Contribute positively to the nursery environment and team culture.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and follow guidance from senior staff.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability and accountability at all times.
• Engage in training, supervision and ongoing professional development.

Person Specification

Essential

• Level 3 qualification in Childcare / Early Years (or equivalent).
• A genuine passion for working with young children.
• A caring, positive and professional approach.
• Good communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• Strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting children’s wellbeing.
• Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to undertake one).

Desirable

• Previous experience working in a nursery or early years setting.
• Knowledge and practical understanding of the EYFS.
• First Aid and Safeguarding training (or willingness to complete).

Why work for us

Our culture is built around our ARCH values: Accountability, Reliability, Caring and Honesty . We believe in recognising success, supporting wellbeing, and creating opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential. We're proud to be a Sunday Times Best Place to Work and a Great Place to Work certified organisation , reflecting our commitment to creating an engaging and supportive workplace.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Generous annual leave entitlement
• Continuous professional development and fully funded training
• Leadership development programmes
• Excellent career progression opportunities across our growing group
• Employee recognition and reward schemes
• Wellbeing support and employee benefits platform
• Discounted childcare (where applicable)
• Team events and celebrations
• An inclusive, supportive, and values-driven culture

Grow Your Career With Us

Whether you're an experienced Nursery Manager or looking to take the next step in your leadership journey, we'll invest in your development and provide opportunities to progress within a growing organisation. Many of our leaders have developed their careers with us, and we're committed to helping our people achieve their ambitions.