Job Description: Level 3 Early Years Practitioner – Toddler Room (2–3 Years)
Location: Nature's Little Learners, Hornbeam Park Reports to: Room Leader / Deputy Room Leader / Nursery Manager Contract Type: Full-time/Part Time
Role Purpose
The Level 3 Early Years Practitioner will play an important role in supporting the care and education of children aged 2–3 years within the Toddler Room. The role focuses on being a caring, nurturing practitioner who provides stimulating learning opportunities, builds strong attachments with key children, and encourages toddlers' growing independence, communication, and social skills. The practitioner will take responsibility as a key person, working closely with families and supporting the Room Leader in ensuring high standards of care and learning.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
1. Safeguarding
* Complete and maintain all required safeguarding training.
* Follow safeguarding policies and procedures consistently.
* Act promptly on any concerns, reporting immediately to the Room Leader or management.
* Be vigilant at all times to ensure children's safety and welfare.
2. Caring for Children
* Provide warm, nurturing care that supports children's emotional well-being and security.
* Take on key person responsibilities, building close relationships with children and families.
* Plan and deliver age-appropriate activities that support children's development across the EYFS.
* Encourage independence and self-care, including toilet training, dressing, feeding, and tidying up.
* Support children's language and communication through play, songs, stories, and conversation.
* Provide reassurance and comfort when children are upset, helping them to regulate their emotions.
* Create and maintain a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment.
3. Parents and Carers
* Build strong, positive relationships with parents and carers.
* Provide daily feedback on routines, progress, and experiences.
* Share children's achievements and development updates through the Famly app and meetings.
* Work in partnership with families to support children's next steps and transitions.
4. Teamwork
* Work collaboratively with the Room Leader, Deputy, and colleagues to support daily routines and planning.
* Share ideas, reflections, and observations to enhance the learning environment.
* Support and guide Level 2 practitioners, apprentices, or new staff when required.
* Help maintain a calm, positive atmosphere in the room.
5. Positive Relationships
* Be a positive role model, showing kindness, patience, and respect.
* Promote positive interactions between children, encouraging social skills like sharing and turn-taking.
* Build warm, trusting attachments with children to support their confidence and learning.
6. Policies and Procedures
* Follow nursery policies at all times, including safeguarding, health and safety, and confidentiality.
* Carry out and contribute to risk assessments and daily safety checks.
* Ensure resources and equipment are safe, clean, and age-appropriate.
* Support the nursery in meeting EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
7. Observations and Assessment
* Complete high-quality observations and assessments for key children.
* Keep children's learning journals and "next steps" up to date.
* Contribute to progress checks and leavers' reports.
* Use the Famly app to record observations, communicate with parents, and share updates.
8. General Duties
* Assist with daily routines including mealtimes, toileting, and transitions.
* Help set up and tidy away resources and activities.
* Support children through outdoor play and curiosity-led exploration.
* Maintain accurate records such as registers, accident forms, and daily logs.
* Attend staff meetings, training, and CPD opportunities.
* Be flexible in supporting other rooms or duties as needed.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent).
* Strong knowledge of safeguarding and child protection.
* Experience working with toddlers (2–3 years).
* Understanding of the EYFS and how to support learning and development.
* Excellent communication skills with children, colleagues, and families.
* Organised and able to take responsibility for key children.
* Nurturing, patient, and enthusiastic about children's play and learning.
Desirable:
* Paediatric First Aid certificate.
* Experience using Famly or similar online learning journals.
* Previous experience as a key person.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
Pay: Up to £34,580.00 per year
Benefits:
* Bereavement leave
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Harrogate HG2 8PB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person