Location: Gillingham, Dorset, United Kingdom Dorset
Job type: Full Time Permanent
Salary: £13.30 per hour
Contracted Hours: 20 hours per week
Overview
At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee‑owned childcare group, we know that valuing people is the key to success. When you join us, you become more than an employee – you become a co‑owner with a voice, opportunities to grow, and a share in our success.
With over 30 nurseries across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. We offer apprenticeships, nursery practitioners, nursery managers, and casual staff roles for passionate individuals.
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
Our Senior Nursery Practitioner (Internal Only) is an experienced early years professional who provides high‑quality care and education to young children while also taking on leadership responsibilities within the nursery. You will serve as a role model to our colleagues and help maintain the standards of care and learning in the nursery.
Tops Gillingham Nursery is a 96‑place Day Nursery & Pre‑School situated in Gillingham. The nursery runs several extra‑curricular activities including Tops Forest School, baby massage sessions, Holiday club (after school care) and more.
Why You'll Love Working with Us
At Tops Day Nurseries, we believe in rewarding our team for their hard work and dedication. Here are some of the fantastic benefits you’ll enjoy as part of our family.
* Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
* Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more)
* Health & wellbeing support – NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
* A generous holiday allowance – including your birthday off & a wellbeing day!
Responsibilities
* Deliver outstanding childcare that promotes children’s safety, well‑being, and development.
* Support children’s learning through age‑appropriate activities and play that meet developmental milestones.
* Observe and assess children’s progress and maintain detailed records to ensure that each child’s needs are met.
* Lead and guide nursery practitioners, assistants, and apprentices within the room or nursery.
* Ensure learning activities are tailored to the individual needs of each child and encourage their cognitive, emotional, and social development.
* Assist the Room Manager or Nursery Manager in maintaining the smooth operation of the room or nursery.
Qualifications
* A minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification is required.
* Extensive experience working in a nursery or childcare setting.
* Solid knowledge of the EYFS.
* 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.
At Tops Day Nurseries, 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr