Early Years Practitioner

Early Years Practitioner

Are you a Level 3 Early Years Practitioner ready to grow and lead practice?

Join Watoto Preschool and work in a nurturing, forward-thinking setting that invests in your professional development and values excellence.

Watoto Preschool – Burngreave, Sheffield

Watoto Preschool is a long-established early years setting in Sheffield, providing high-quality care and education for children aged 6 months to 4 years, alongside before-school, after-school and holiday playcare for children up to 8 years old. Established in 1995, we are proud to be a nurturing, inclusive and supportive setting where children, families and staff can flourish.

We are looking for a caring, enthusiastic and reliable Early Years Practitioner to join our dedicated team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about giving children the best start in life and working in a setting where teamwork, development and fun are at the heart of everything we do.

Job details

Location: Burngreave, Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Contracts: Term time only (39 weeks) & Full year  (47 weeks) includes 5 staff training days

Hours: Minimum 32.5 hours per week

Working pattern: Monday to Friday, shifts between 7:30am – 6:00pm

About the role

As an Early Years Practitioner, you will play a key role in providing high-quality care, learning and developmental support for children. You will help create a safe, stimulating environment, support children’s development and work closely with families and colleagues to ensure the best outcomes for every child.

Main responsibilities

• Build warm, trusting relationships with children and support their development
• Promote confidence, independence and positive behaviour through daily routines
• Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate learning activities
• Observe, assess and support children’s progress
• Foster language development, curiosity and learning through play
• Support inclusive practice and meet a range of needs
• Maintain a safe, organised and stimulating learning environment
• Build strong partnerships with parents and carers
• Follow safeguarding, welfare, health and safety procedures at all times
• Participate in team meetings, training and reflective practice

What we’re looking for

• Caring, patient and passionate about early years
• Strong communication skills with a warm, professional manner
• Reliable, enthusiastic and a strong team player
• Reflective and committed to professional development
• Calm and solution-focused in a busy environment.

Essential requirements

• Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years qualification
• Safeguarding and Child Protection training
• Paediatric First Aid (or willingness to complete)
• Enhanced DBS check
• Right to work in the UK

Desirable

• Level 3 Early Years Educator (or above)
• Additional training in SEND, behaviour or early learning
• Food Hygiene or Health & Safety training
• Experience in an early years or childcare setting

Benefits

• Learning and development opportunities
• Staff Wellbeing programme
• Attendance lottery draw
• Childcare discount (subject to eligibility)

After one year of service:

• Healthcare cash plan
• An additional day of annual leave on your birthday

Why join Watoto Preschool?

At Watoto Preschool, you’ll be part of a supportive, inclusive team where your contribution is valued. We are committed to creating a positive working environment where staff feel encouraged, supported and able to grow—while making a real difference in children’s lives.

Safeguarding statement

Watoto Preschool is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and relevant suitability checks.

Apply now

If you’re passionate about early years and want to work in a friendly, supportive and rewarding environment, we would love to hear from you.