SEND Support Nursery Practitioner

Job Details

Type: We have a rare and rewarding opportunity for a SEND Support Practitioner to support the Nursery SENCO in delivering exceptional care and tailored support to children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This diverse role involves working across all age groups in the nursery, providing targeted one‑to‑one support, planning and leading small intervention groups, and building strong partnerships with parents and families.

You will play a key part in identifying and addressing children’s emerging additional needs and will contribute to a nurturing, inclusive learning environment.

Closing Date: 2026‑02‑28

Reference: VA289

Location: Red Bus Downend, Downend, Bristol, BS16, United Kingdom

Job Type: 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday, between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm (hours may be negotiable for the right candidate).

Salary: £13.65‑14.04 per hour (depending on qualifications & experience)

We are proud to be part of the Chalk Nursery Group, a growing family of high‑quality early years settings. At Red Bus Downend, we are passionate about providing a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment for children aged 3 months to 5 years, where they can learn, explore and thrive.

Red Bus Downend is a vibrant, four‑storey nursery in a beautifully restored former maternity hospital. Every floor features bright, character‑filled rooms, from sensory spaces to a glass yurt and a unique Curiosity Room. With landscaped gardens, excellent facilities, and space for both children and staff to thrive, it’s a truly special place to work. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted.

We have a rare and rewarding opportunity for a SEND Support Practitioner to support the Nursery SENCO in delivering exceptional care and tailored support to children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

This diverse role involves working across all age groups in the nursery, providing targeted one‑to‑one support, planning and leading small intervention groups, and building strong partnerships with parents and families. You will play a key part in identifying and addressing children’s emerging additional needs and will contribute to a nurturing, inclusive learning environment.

• Work closely with the Nursery SENCO, SEND Champions, Key Workers, and external professionals to support children with SEND.
• Provide 1:1 support and deliver group interventions tailored to individual support plans and, where needed.
• Build empathetic, trusting relationships with children and their families.
• Manage your own diary and workload to prepare support plans collaboratively with parents.
• Assist with funding applications and contribute to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Apply the principles of the Graduated Approach and demonstrate independence in planning and delivering interventions.

• A minimum of a Level 2 full & relevant qualification in early years – this is essential
• Experience working with children with additional needs is essential.
• SENCO qualification is desirable, or a willingness to complete the qualification.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• A positive, proactive attitude and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to providing high‑quality, inclusive early years education.

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• 28 days of annual leave (plus 3 days paid time off at Christmas).
• Regular staff social events and recognition initiatives.
• Free access to expert wellbeing support, daily check‑ins, and virtual health consultations via the Symbio app.
• Discounted childcare.
• Full uniform provided.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• A genuinely supportive team and leadership structure.

• All positions are subject to an enhanced DBS check.
• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
• We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children – all staff are expected to share this commitment.

Apply today!

If you’re ready to be part of something special and help shape the future of our children, apply today and join the Red Bus journey!