Join Our Team at the University of Southampton Early Years Centre Where calm meets curiosity, and every day inspires a love of learning. We are looking for passionate, motivated Early Years Practitioners to join our warm and dedicated team. This is more than just a role, it’s an opportunity to be part of a nurturing environment where both children and practitioners can truly thrive. About Us At our Early Years Centre, we create calm, curiosity-led spaces where children feel safe, secure, and excited to explore. Our environment is thoughtfully designed to support emotional wellbeing, independence, and meaningful learning experiences. We are proud to be an active setting, making full use of our spacious sports facilities and excellent access to extra-curricular activities. From movement-based play to outdoor exploration, we embrace a dynamic approach that supports children’s physical development alongside their curiosity and creativity. Our approach is reflective and child-centred. We continually ask “why?” ensuring every interaction, resource, and experience has purpose. By following children’s interests and offering open-ended opportunities, we extend learning through thoughtful modelling, communication, and encouragement. The Role As an Early Years Practitioner, you will: Provide high-quality care and education for children at all stages of early development Help create a calm, welcoming, and engaging environment for children and families Support children’s learning through play, exploration, and meaningful interactions Encourage confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning Work collaboratively within a supportive and reflective team What We’re Looking For We are seeking individuals who: Take pride in delivering exceptional care Bring warmth, creativity, and compassion to their practice Are enthusiastic, flexible, and motivated Value teamwork and a shared vision for high-quality early years education Qualifications Required Applicants must hold one of the following (or equivalent): NVQ Level 3 in Early Years and Education CACHE Diploma NNEB A satisfactory Enhanced DBS check is required. Why Join Us A supportive and welcoming team environment Opportunities to be part of an active, engaging setting with excellent facilities A culture where your ideas are valued and your voice is heard The chance to make a genuine difference every single day Further Information For an informal discussion about the role, please contact the Early Years Centre on (023) 8059 3465 or email your CV to eycentre@soton.ac.uk Working at the University of Southampton By joining the University of Southampton Early Years Centre, you will become part of a professional and supportive environment where your contribution is valued. We are committed to creating a workplace where staff feel respected, encouraged, and able to develop in their roles. Application Procedure The application deadline is midnight on the closing date stated above. If you need assistance, call Recruitment on 44 (0) 23 8059 2750, or email recruitment@soton.ac.uk. Quote the advert reference on all correspondence. You should submit your completed online application form at https://jobs.soton.ac.uk. The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach. This role does not qualify for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship. To explore alternative UK visa options, see gov.uk. Apply by 11.59 pm UK time on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on 44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number. Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme Disability Confident About Disability Confident A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident .