Nursery Practitioner

Job summary

Permanent | Full-Time

About the School - Kings Plymouth:
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. Please note this is a full-time and NOT a term-time only position. We are closed over Christmas and bank holidays; otherwise, the nursery will be open to provide care for our children.

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 is 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 at King's School & Nursery, you will play a vital role in fostering a safe, stimulating, and caring learning environment for young children. Your primary purpose will be to ensure the well-being and development of the children, adhering to the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. You will be responsible for planning and implementing a balanced range of learning activities that cater to the diverse needs of children aged 0-3 years, while also occasionally supporting older children up to age 11. This role requires you to maintain health and hygiene standards, promote positive relationships with parents, and collaborate with other education professionals. You will uphold the nursery's policies and procedures, ensuring a happy and supportive atmosphere for both children and staff alike.

This is a full-time, permanent role immediately available.

To view our Role Profile, click here.

Who we are looking for:
We are looking for dedicated individuals like you, who have a genuine passion for working with young children. You should possess a relevant Nursery Assistant qualification, such as NVQ Level 2 or higher, and demonstrate strong communication skills. A clear understanding of safeguarding practices is essential. We value creativity, adaptability, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Previous experience in an Early Years setting and your commitment to promoting equal opportunities for all children will be important attributes that make you the ideal Nursery Practitioner.

Benefits at Cognita:
*Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
*Enrolment in our company's Pension Scheme
*Subsidised lunch available during Term Time
*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: 29th May 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 the recruitment of Ex-Offenders are 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 before the closing date for the right applicant.