Nursery Practitioner

Job summary

Permanent | Part-Time | 15 hours per week

About the School - Kings:
King's School and Nursery in Plymouth is a co-educational independent school for children aged 8 months up to 11 years old. We provide a complete education in a warm and nurturing environment.

Our strong sense of family and community, where each child is guided and encouraged to aim high and do their best both academically and personally, is something we are very proud of. Good manners and thoughtfulness for others are core values and children learn to take responsibility whilst gaining in self-confidence, self-discipline and maturity.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Nursery Practitioner to join our fantastic team. This is a lunchtime cover role and will typically be between 11:30 and 14:30, 5 days per week (total contacted 15 hours). There will be opportunity for overtime as and when required.

About Cognita:
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, 'Thrive in a rapidly evolving world'.

About the role:
As a Nursery Practitioner, you will play a key role in creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children aged 0-3, with occasional work with children up to 11 years old. You'll be actively involved in planning and delivering engaging learning activities, working within the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. You will support the development of every child, ensuring their wellbeing, encouraging curiosity, and promoting positive relationships. From carrying out observations to working closely with parents, carers, and colleagues, your contribution will help build a warm, inclusive nursery community. You'll also support wider school events, staff meetings, and training days as required.

This is a part-time, permanent role.

To view our Role Profile, click here.

Who we are looking for:
You are a caring, energetic and reliable early years professional, qualified to at least NVQ Level 2, CCLD, NNEB, CACHE or equivalent with experience in an Early Years setting. You communicate well with children and adults alike, and you understand the importance of safeguarding, inclusive practice, and the Key Person system. You're hands-on, adaptable, and confident in supporting children's development through creative and structured activities. Whether you're supporting learning, providing personal care, or contributing to a happy team atmosphere, you're passionate about making a meaningful difference in young children's lives.

Benefits at Cognita:
*Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
*Enrolment in our company's Pension Scheme
*Subsidised lunch available
*School holidays and public holidays
*Free parking on site (subject to availability)
*School fee discount
*Exclusive third-party discounts
*Ongoing professional development

How to Apply:
Complete this application before the closing date:?5th April 2026.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.