Job Overview
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) is delighted to offer fantastic opportunities to work within our Taplins Nurseries.
This vacancy does not meet the Home Office threshold for sponsorship; therefore we are unable to accept applications from candidates who do not have the right to work in the UK.
To be considered for this role, you must hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification or equivalent.
Taplins Nurseries
We are recruiting experienced and newly qualified Level 3 Early Years Practitioners to join our nursery teams providing high‑quality childcare for NHS families. Taplins offers an environment where practitioners feel supported, valued and respected. The security and benefits of NHS employment combined with a strong team culture allow staff to focus on rewarding early years practice without the pressures often experienced in the private sector.
Working Hours & Pay
* Opening hours: Monday‑Friday, 07:00‑18:30 (closed on bank holidays)
* Work patterns: Full‑time and part‑time roles available, with flexible working open for discussion
* Salary: £25,760–£27,476 per annum (£13.17–£14.05 per hour equivalent) with incremental pay progression
* Locations: Taplins Southampton General (SO16 6YD) and Trust Taplins Western Community Hospital (SO16 4XE)
Why Work With Taplins
* Work‑life balance – Flexible full‑time and part‑time opportunities, possible 4‑day working week for full‑time roles (37.5 h)
* Generous leave – 35 days paid annual leave rising with service, plus enhanced maternity and paternity pay, compassionate leave and support during unforeseen circumstances.
* Discounts and wellbeing – Access to Blue Light Card and other staff discounts.
* Flexible earning opportunities – Option to take on additional hours through the staff bank (NHSP) if desired.
Role Description
Taplins is designed for practitioners seeking a long‑term career in early years. With realistic workloads and NHS stability, we offer a role that supports wellbeing and work‑life balance.
Taplins offers a calmer, more sustainable alternative to private nursery settings, while maintaining warmth, teamwork and child‑centred focus.
Early years practitioners at Taplins are recognised as skilled professionals and an essential part of the NHS community.
Your Responsibilities
* Creating a safe, secure and engaging environment for children
* Planning and delivering EYFS‑based activities that support learning and development
* Acting as a key person, building strong relationships with children and families
* Maintaining developmental records and online learning journals (Tapestry)
* Supporting children with additional needs in partnership with the SENDCo
* Upholding high standards of hygiene, health and safety
* Supporting mealtimes and daily routines
* Working collaboratively within a positive and supportive nursery team
Qualifications, Training and Experience
Essential criteria
* Good standard of secondary education with literacy and numeracy skills demonstrable to GCSE pass level or equivalent standard
* Willingness and ability to undertake Food Safety training
* Recent previous experiences of working with 3 months – 5‑year‑olds within a childcare setting
* Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years Qualification (or equivalent). If level 3 qualified post‑June 2016, also hold a full paediatric first aid (PFA) or emergency PFA certificate.
Desirable criteria
* Current paediatric and/or first aid at work certificate if qualified pre‑Jun 2016, or if candidate holds a qualification higher than level 3
* Current food hygiene certificate
Alignment with Trust Values
* Patients First
* Working Together
* Always Improving
Safeguarding
Taplins Nurseries and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff are expected to share this commitment.
Appointments are subject to appropriate pre‑employment checks, including enhanced DBS clearance, verification of qualifications and satisfactory references. Specific safeguarding responsibilities are detailed in the job description and person specification.
Next Steps
If you meet the essential criteria outlined in the person specification, a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your application and current opportunities. We look forward to receiving your application.
#J-18808-Ljbffr