Join to apply for the Nursery Practitioner-Level 3 role at Tops Day Nurseries.
Base Pay Range
Location: Gillingham, Dorset, United Kingdom
Job type: Full Time Permanent
Salary: £13.60 per hour
Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week
Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?
At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee‑owned childcare group, we value people and give every team member a voice, growth opportunities and a share in our success.
With 38 nursery sites across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers and preschool children. We offer opportunities for apprenticeship, nursery practitioners, managers and casual staff.
We’re proud to be recognised as a World’s Happiest Workplace 2025 and one of the Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024).
About the Role
* Look after the educational and social development of babies and young children up to the age of five.
* Provide a safe environment for learning, develop basic social and behavioural skills, and engage children in age‑appropriate play activities.
* Work alongside a passionate team that values care, warmth and kindness.
About the Nursery
Tops Gillingham Nursery is a 96‑place day nursery and pre‑school situated in Gillingham. The nursery offers a range of extra‑curricular activities including Top’s Forest School, baby massage sessions and holiday club after‑school care.
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
* £700 Welcome Bonus to kick‑start your journey with us
* Relocation support of up to £3,000 (T&Cs apply) – the Welcome Bonus and relocation packages are not cumulative
* Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
* Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Every Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & more)
* Health & wellbeing support – NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
* A generous holiday allowance, including your birthday off & a wellbeing day
What Does the Role Involve?
* Provide day‑to‑day care, including feeding, changing diapers and assisting with toilet training. Ensure a safe, clean, and stimulating environment.
* Develop and lead fun, age‑appropriate activities that promote learning and development across social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills.
* Observe children’s development and identify any areas of concern. Help children develop motor skills, language and social interactions through play and structured learning.
* Ensure children are safe and emotionally supported. Encourage independence and exploration.
* Keep records of each child’s progress, milestones, behaviours and developmental needs, following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
* Maintain regular communication with parents or guardians about their child’s progress, needs and any concerns.
What Are We Looking For?
* Minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification.
* Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures.
Important Safeguarding Information
* Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service. If you don’t yet have one, you’ll need to cover the cost.
* Be eligible to work in regulated roles – not on the Children’s Barred List.
* Successfully complete background and reference checks.
We are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Apply Now
Excited to make a difference? Take the next step in your career and join Tops Day Nurseries.
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