Early Years Practitioner - Join Our Team in Marwell Zoo
Are you passionate about fostering a love of nature in young children? Kids Love Nature Kindergarten is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Early Years Practitioner to join our team in Marwell Zoo.
About Us:
* At Kids Love Nature, we believe that the early years are a crucial time for children to develop a deep connection with the natural world. Our unique indoor and outdoor-focused approach allows children to explore, learn, and grow through hands-on experiences in our beautiful natural setting.
About the Role:
* As an Early Years Practitioner, you'll play a vital role in creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can thrive. You'll work closely with our team to plan and implement engaging activities that promote learning and development through child led play, making the most of our stunning classrooms and expansive outdoor spaces.
We're looking for someone who:
* Has a genuine passion for early years education and a love of the outdoors.
* Holds a relevant Early Years qualification (Level 3 or above).
* Has experience working with children aged 0-5 years.
* Is creative, energetic, and able to inspire a sense of wonder in young children.
* Is a team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
What We Offer:
* Set Shift Patterns: Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with predictable working hours.
* Competitive Salary: Receive a salary that reflects your skills and experience.
* Paid Lunch Breaks and Staff Meetings: Take time to recharge and collaborate with your team, all while being paid.
* Comprehensive Training Programme and Commitment to Ongoing Professional Development: We invest in your growth with a robust training program and ongoing opportunities to expand your skills.
* Opportunities for Progression: We support your career aspirations and offer paths for advancement within our organisation.
* Regular Team Socials and Christmas Party: Build strong relationships with your colleagues and celebrate your successes together.
* Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Access confidential support for your personal and professional well-being.
* 5.6 Weeks Paid Holiday (Including Bank Holidays): Take time to rest and recharge.
* Paid Sick Leave (After 1 Year of Service): We understand that life happens and offer paid time off to support your health.
Closing Date: Monday 22nd September 2025
Setting Type: Day Nursery - open 7.45am to 6pm
Kindergarten Address: Kids Love Nature Kindergarten at Marwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, SO21 1JH
Contract Part-time or Full-time available
Salary: Qualified 18+ year olds up to £32,045 FTE (£14.50 per hour) inclusive of paid lunch breaks
Min qualification: Level 2 or level 3
SAFER RECRUITMENT NOTICE:
Kids Love Nature are committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children in our care. All applicants therefore must be willing to undergo effective child protection and safeguarding screening, this will include references from previous employers and an DBS check and then registered with the Update service. We shall also seek compliance with sections 15-25 of the immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 (eligibility to work in the United Kingdom of Great Britain).
All staff must confirm they are not included on Children's barred list or PoVA or barred by the Independent Safeguarding Authority; or disqualified from working with children, or been refused registration or had it cancelled; subject to sanctions imposed by a regulatory body, e.g. the Teaching Agency or Health and Care professions council and Ofsted.
All our posts are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all convictions, cautions, repremands and warnings including those regarded as 'spent', must be declared.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: Up to £14.50 per hour
Benefits:
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
Experience:
* Childcare: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person