Job Description
Position: Nursery Practitioner
Organisation: Elms Day Nursery (part of University of Birmingham)
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Salary: £25,618–£27,126 (full time 35hrs, potential progression)
Grade: 3
Closing date: 15th June 2026
Benefits
* 40 days paid holiday a year
* 1 paid day a year for volunteering
* 2 paid staff training days
* Occupational sick pay
* Discounted gym membership at the new sports centre
* Recognition scheme
* Staff discount on childcare
* An in‑depth induction to the nursery including EYFS
* Ongoing training and development opportunities
Job Summary
The role of the Nursery Practitioner is to ensure that all children attending The Elms Day Nursery receive high quality care, are kept safe, and receive rich and stimulating play experiences which meet their individual needs and support all aspects and components of the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum. The role will entail light domestic duties as and when required in the playrooms.
Pre-appointment checks
* The University will seek references from at least one referee prior to interview. Candidates must therefore provide at least one referee whom we can contact immediately. The remaining referees will usually only be contacted if you are offered appointment. Candidates should indicate clearly on the application form which referee(s) may be contacted prior to interview.
* Candidates invited to interview will be asked to disclose all past names for the sole purpose of verifying identity for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and safeguarding checks. Candidates will be asked to bring documents to verify their identity (e.g. birth/adoption certificates and any evidence of name changes).
* All successful candidates will be required to undergo a DBS check covering all names used.
Main duties
* Provide high quality, positive care for babies and children from 6 weeks old to 5 years through social, emotional, educational and practical interaction, nurturing, and guidance, with a good clear understanding of developmental stages.
* Make sure the babies are kept safe, are well, and that Child Protection Procedures are followed.
* Implement the key worker system to address the individual needs of each child, family, and carers.
* Observe and keep records of the activities and progress of children.
* Complete parental inductions to liaise and ensure a smooth transition from home to nursery.
* Partner with parents/carers to keep them informed of their child’s day and progress.
* Organise, maintain and ensure a clean, tidy, hygienic, safe, child‑friendly environment.
* Supervise activities such as arts and crafts, cooking, reading, music, and outdoor and physical activities.
* Maintain toys and equipment.
* Feed babies and ensure the nutritional needs of babies and children are met via a variety of stages from preparation of bottles, weaning to full solid diet that complies with Food Safety Regulations and NHS Guidance.
* Change nappies and help children with potty/toilet training.
* Help children to learn social, emotional, numeracy, language and practical skills.
* Work with staff within the nursery to provide a high quality nursery service.
* Work with outside professional bodies or agencies as appropriate.
* Implement the daily routine of the nursery.
* Participate in meetings.
* Follow the nursery’s practices, processes, and procedures – e.g. positive behaviour management techniques.
* Learn about developments in childcare and undertake training as required.
* Ensure the health and safety of colleagues and children, complying with all Health and Safety requirements.
* Treat everyone with dignity and respect, support equality, and value diversity.
* Undertake other duties as required.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications and Experience
* Childcare and Education NVQ Level 3.
* GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade C or above.
* Experience in working with children from birth to 5 years and positive behaviour management.
* Knowledge of developments in early years of education and willingness to undertake training.
* Knowledge of legislation, regulations, inspection criteria, and curriculum relevant to Early Years.
* Understanding of how to ensure health and safety and hygiene in a childcare setting.
* Understanding of and commitment to Child Protection procedures.
* Suitability and ability to care for children, including the ability to deal with challenging behaviours.
* Ability to communicate well and work well with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
* Reliable.
* Punctual.
* Ability to write legibly and present information well.
* Ability to work well as part of a team.
* Good organisational skills.
* Ability to learn and understand how diversity considerations affect early years’ childcare.
* Ability and willingness to take on duties as required.
DBS
The University is committed to safeguarding and will, prior to appointment confirmation, undertake all associated pre‑employment checks. All successful applicants will be required to obtain a satisfactory DBS clearance before appointment.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community. We hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter, and Disability Confident accreditations.
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