Early Years Practitioner

Exciting opportunity to join a brand-new nursery opening in Basingstoke. We are looking for enthusiastic Level 3 Early Years Practitioners to join our team in September 2026.

YMCA are delighted to be partnering with Hounsome Fields Primary School in Basingstoke, offering a fantastic opportunity to shape and grow a brand-new setting from day one, based within a new housing development.

At YMCA Fairthorne, we believe that everyone should have a fair chance to discover who they are and what they can become. Our approach to early years education is rooted in the belief that every child is unique, and it’s our privilege to support them on their journey of self-discovery and growth, nurturing futures every step of the way.

• Joining Bonus! Total of £500
• Early Years Financial Incentive Scheme, we can now offer a £1000 payment to eligible new or returning staff, funded by the Department for Education
• Refer a Friend Scheme
• Health Cash plan – Including Medical/Dental/Online retail discounts
• 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days
• Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days a year)
• Celebration Leave
• Blue Light card eligibility
• Employer pension
• 50% discount on nursery fees
• Enhanced Maternity
• Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum
• Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor: campsite, river hire, activities, daycamps
• 30% discount on food in Cafes:
  Eastleigh and Andover
• Wellbeing assistance programme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Good quality resources and a modern environment
• A welcoming, caring and supportive culture

• Promote a nurturing environment whilst engaging with children of all ages and developmental skills, encouraging each child to meet his/her potential by supporting them through learning and play with positive reinforcement and praise.
• Support children, co-workers and parents alike; deliver stimulating indoor and outdoor activities; complete and record daily observations for children in your care; and plan their next developmental steps in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage.
• Comply with policies and procedures outlined by the setting.
• Attend training opportunities for personal and professional development as well as the development of the organisation.
• Assist in ensuring that the Nursery is a safe environment for children.
• Embrace the variety of each day, use initiative to keep children engaged and support their emotional needs as they arise.

• Level 3 childcare qualification and relevant experience is required
• A commitment to providing high-quality childcare including physical care and hygienic practice for children aged 4 months – 5 years.
• Have an understanding of the developmental needs of children, Statutory Framework and relevant legislation.
• Basic knowledge of health and safety.
• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding good practice.
• Paediatric First Aid qualification or willingness to train.

If you’re passionate about early childhood education and ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Join us in nurturing futures and creating a brighter tomorrow for all. Apply now to start your Early Years career.

• Access to 26 online professional development modules.
• Inspiring opportunities to work in different settings and share practice.

Successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service.

We are an equal opportunities charity with commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace. A copy of this policy will be made available on request.

Please apply now for this rewarding position and be part of an amazing charity who continue to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.