North Somerset Council
Little Waves Nursery is one of three maintained nurseries for children aged 2 –3 years old located in Weston-Super-Mare. Little Waves has a Good Ofsted judgement and our dedicated team continually strive to seek innovative ways to further improve and develop practice. We have an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to join our aspirational team.
You will be part of a dynamic work family who support each other and value staff wellbeing and diversity. We are forward thinking and embrace new continuous professional development opportunities including Five to Thrive, Attention-Strategy, Emotion Coaching, Theraplay and evidence informed practice.
North Somerset Council is dedicated to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.
The Role
You will actively contribute and support high quality care and education to children aged 2-3 years attending the nursery, ensuring developmental needs are met. Working positively in partnership with parents/carers whilst creating a safe and nurturing environment as part of the nursery team.
We are proud of our strong Children’s Centre links and the shared core values which are embedded throughout our nursery. We work closely with our families and have effective partnerships with a range of agencies including Family Support Workers, Social Workers and Health Visitors, towards improving the outcomes for our children.
This position is exempt under the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions) Order 1975 and is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Valid driving licence and own transport, or be able to provide alternative, suitable method of travel is an essential condition for this role.
Key Responsibilities:
To be an early educator and a key person to a key group of children, whilst working under the direction on their room lead.
They will use their knowledge of the EYFS framework and experience of working with children aged 2 – 5 years, so that they can effectively support children’s learning and development, whilst keeping them safe.
About You
We are looking for an individual who is passionate about early education. You will contribute and provide, value and promote the indoor and outdoor environments.
It is essential that you actively promote and support the safeguarding of children, ensuring policies and procedures are always observed.
We need an early educator who has a strong knowledge of the EYFS framework as well as experience working with children aged 2-5 years.
We are looking for a practitioner who promotes our Nursery’s positive values, attitudes (including British Values) and child behaviour, dealing promptly with conflicts and encouraging children to independently find solutions/become problem solvers. Has the ability to build warm and positive relationships with children and their families and a willingness to work as part of a team.
The successful candidate will need:
Level 3 or above qualification in Early Years and Care
English and Maths GSCE Grade C or above (or equivalent)
Experience of working in an Early Years environment and providing outstanding care and provision
Good communication skills, both written and verbal
The ability to build relationships and work in partnership with children and families
The practitioner will share the settings passion about children’s learning and have a strong knowledge of the EYFS including the ability to plan to support individuals’ progress.
Knowledge and understanding of both child protection/safeguarding and working exclusively with vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.
Awareness of OFSTED requirements
Occasional working in the evenings and weekends
Desirable Criteria:
Paediatric First Aid.
Food & Hygiene Certificate
Experience of working with children with special educational needs and disabilities
Ability to provide a flexible and calm response to children and families.
What We Offer
At North Somerset Council, we value our employees and provide a supportive and inclusive work environment.
We offer:
Competitive salary and benefits
Flexible working arrangements
Opportunities for professional development
Staff groups
Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year
Dedicated Wellbeing Team
Salary sacrifice cycle to work and Electric vehicle schemes
Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.
How to Apply
If you share our vision and values and are ready to make an impact to North Somerset, please select the apply button below. If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your application by 11.59pm on the application closing date. When completing our online application form, please detail how you meet the essential criteria for the role.
Contact Information:
For further information about the role, please contact Lucy Thie, Little Waves Manager, at lucy.thie@n-somerset.gov.uk or 01934 427450.
Important Information
Interview Date: To be confirmed
We are currently only able to accept applications from candidates who have full permission to work in the UK.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme