Early Years Practitioner

We are seeking a qualified and passionate Early Years Practitioner to join our dedicated nursery team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the care and education of children aged 0–5, supporting their development through play-based learning, and building strong partnerships with families.

Location: Shakespeare Road, Popley, Basingstoke RG24 9BP

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 36 hours per week
Salary: £25,000 FTE
Sign-Up Bonus: £500 (£250 on start date + £250 after successful probation)

Kids is a leading UK charity dedicated to supporting children and young people with and without disabilities to live fulfilling lives. Our nurseries are inclusive, safe, and stimulating spaces where children can grow, explore, and flourish.

Basingstoke Nursery is a purpose-built day‑care setting that caters for up to 90 children daily. It offers a warm, creative, and inclusive learning environment focused on supporting children’s development through play.

Child Development and Learning

• Act as a Key Worker for a group of children, developing secure attachments and personalised learning journeys.
• Plan and deliver age‑appropriate, stimulating activities that support the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
• Observe, assess, and record each child’s progress, using this information to plan for next steps in learning.
• Promote children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual development through a range of activities.

Health, Safety & Safeguarding

• Ensure a safe, clean, and secure environment for all children.
• Comply with all nursery policies and procedures, including safeguarding, health and safety, and confidentiality protocols.
• Identify and respond to any safeguarding or welfare concerns appropriately and in line with organisational policy.
• Work effectively as part of a team to deliver high‑quality care and education.
• Contribute ideas and participate in team meetings and development sessions.
• Support and mentor less experienced colleagues or apprentices as appropriate.

Family and Community Engagement

• Build strong relationships with parents/carers, keeping them informed of their child’s progress and well‑being.
• Offer support and guidance to families, encouraging a shared approach to their child’s development.

• Minimum Level 3 Early Years Qualification (as listed on the Department for Education’s approved qualifications checker).
• Demonstrable understanding of the EYFS framework and child development principles.
• Experience in working within a nursery or early years setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Understanding of safeguarding procedures and child protection policies.
• Ability to plan and implement engaging, age‑appropriate activities.
• Experience with children who have special educational needs or disabilities.
• Knowledge of Ofsted inspection requirements.

• The nursery is conveniently located near public transport links from Basingstoke town centre.
• Employment is subject to satisfactory references, enhanced DBS check, and proof of relevant qualifications.

If you meet the essential criteria and are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families, we would love to hear from you.