Third in Charge Senior Nursery Practitioner

Job summary

Woodland Day Nursery is hiring! 

Pay: £15.03 - £15.42 per hour

Job description:

We are an outstanding nursery providing high quality education for children aged 2–5 years. Our setting offers a warm, homely environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. With extensive resources and thoughtfully designed learning spaces, we create rich opportunities for exploration, creativity, and development through play.

We are proud of our supportive team culture where staff are truly valued and appreciated. We believe that when staff feel supported and respected, they are able to provide the very best care and learning experiences for children.

The Role We are looking for a passionate and experienced Third in Charge to join our dedicated team on a fixed-term maternity cover contract starting in July. The contract may be extended by mutual agreement after its expiration.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an early year’s practitioner who is ready to take on additional leadership responsibilities while continuing to work closely with children.

Working alongside the Manager and Deputy Manager, you will help ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the nursery while maintaining the highest standards of care, learning, and safeguarding.

The successful candidate will also be confident leading the nursery in the absence of the Manager and Deputy Manager, ensuring continuity of high-quality practice and effective team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Support the Manager and Deputy in the daily leadership and organisation of the nursery
Lead and inspire staff to deliver outstanding early years practice
Ensure high-quality learning experiences in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Build strong relationships with children, families, and colleagues
Help maintain a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment
Support staff development and act as a role model for best practice
Lead and manage the nursery in the absence of the Manager and Deputy Manager Safeguarding Commitment Safeguarding children is our highest priority in every aspect of our practice. All staff are expected to share this commitment and maintain the highest standards of vigilance and professional conduct to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every child in our care. We follow safer recruitment practices, and all appointments are subject to appropriate safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check, references, and verification of qualifications. About You
Level 3 (or above) qualification in Early Years / Childcare – this is a qualified position, and unqualified applicants will not be considered
Experience working with children aged 2–5 years
Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework
Excellent communication and organisational skills
A positive, nurturing approach with a genuine passion for early childhood education
Experience leading, supporting or mentoring staff is desirable What We Offer
A supportive and welcoming team environment
Staff who are valued, respected, and recognised for their contributions
Staff bonuses and recognition for commitment and performance
An additional day off to celebrate your birthday
Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
Opportunities for career progression
A beautifully resourced nursery environment
If you are enthusiastic, committed, and ready to take the next step in your early years career, we would love to hear from you.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

Company pension

We look forward to hearing from you ??