Early Years Practitioner

West House School is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced EYFS Practitioner to join the school’s EYFS department on a full-time, term-time-only basis. The ideal candidate will be flexible and an adaptable team player with a Level 3 qualification in Early Years Childcare (or equivalent) and will be passionate about Early Years care and education.

The role holders will report to the Nursery Manager.

Job Description

Key Tasks

• Help create a nurturing, inspiring and engaging environment where every child feels valued, supported and encouraged to thrive.
• Work alongside the Early Years team to bring learning to life through exciting activities and experiences that spark curiosity and development.
• Support the smooth running of the nursery by helping maintain appropriate staffing ratios throughout the day.
• Build strong, positive relationships with children and their families, recognising the vital role parents and carers play in each child's journey.
• Observe, celebrate and share children's achievements, helping to track their progress and support their individual development.
• Assist in maintaining accurate and up-to-date pupil records, assessment information and learning journeys.
• Prepare stimulating learning spaces for sessions and help ensure they remain organised, welcoming and ready for the next adventure.
• Champion an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated, and every child feels respected and represented.
• Contribute positively as an enthusiastic and supportive member of the Early Years team.
• Work within the school's policies and procedures, helping to maintain high standards of care and education.
• Offer guidance and encouragement to students and volunteers undertaking placements.
• Support the organisation and management of classroom resources and learning materials.
• Assist with day-to-day administrative tasks to help keep the department running smoothly.
• Provide photocopying and resource preparation as required.
• Support record-keeping, filing and general administration.
• Help create attractive and engaging classroom displays that celebrate children's learning and achievements.
• Encourage and promote the use of technology to enhance teaching, learning and creativity.

General Duties

• Carry out all duties in line with the school's commitment to equality, inclusion and meeting the needs of every child.
• Act as a positive ambassador for the school, promoting its values, ethos and vision at all times.
• Work closely with EYFS colleagues, the Head of EYFS and the Headmaster to ensure excellent communication and collaboration.
• Support children during playtimes and lunchtimes, helping to create a happy, safe and enjoyable environment.
• Play an active role in concerts, productions, celebrations and special events throughout the year.
• Represent the school at Open Days and other events as required.
• Attend staff meetings, training sessions and professional development opportunities, embracing continuous learning and growth.
• Undertake additional responsibilities that contribute to enhancing children's learning, wellbeing and overall experience at the school.
• Assist with the supervision of before- and after-school care when required.
• Build effective relationships with external agencies and professionals where appropriate.
• Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality regarding pupils, families, colleagues and all aspects of school life.

Person Specification

Essential

• Relevant Level 3 qualification in Early Years Childcare (or equivalent)
• Current safeguarding training (within the last three years)
• Educated to GCSE level (or equivalent) including English and Maths at Grade C/5 or above
• A proven record of high-class delivery of Early Years Education
• Outstanding knowledge and understanding of the EYFS Statutory Framework
• Competent ICT skills
• Outstanding communication/interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to work as part of a team
• An ability to prioritise and carry out specific requests in a timely manner
• Problem-solving skills
• A flexible attitude
• A commitment to CPD
• Humour, patience, stamina, loyalty and humility

Desirable

• Current Paediatric First Aid qualification
• Experience of working in a relevant setting
• Experience of working with children in a voluntary capacity
• Experience of working with children beyond an Early Years setting

Salary

Level 3 qualified: £12.93 - £13.42 per hour
Level 4 + qualified: £13.54 - £14.03 per hour plus £520 allowance per year

Hours

Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, including two 6 pm finishes per week. 

Type of position

Permanent, term-time only with a requirement to work during Holiday Club for four weeks during the school holidays. Extra shifts during holiday periods will be available. 

Holidays

Entitlement to 22 days of paid annual leave plus bank holidays.

Benefits

Eligible for discount on school fees for pupils at West House School Nursery, West House School (for boys) and Edgbaston High School for Girls (subject to normal admissions procedures), discount on fees for Holiday Club provision, eligible to join a Contributory Pension Scheme, free lunch and refreshments, free Employee Assistance Programme including Wider Wallet discount scheme, Bike2Work scheme, enhanced Maternity scheme.

Start date 

September 2026

Application information

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to arrange a suitable time for interview: we encourage early application as interviews may be held earlier than the closing date if suitable candidates are available.

West House School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates will be required to undergo all statutory checks including an enhanced DBS check. A copy of the Recruitment, Selection and Disclosure Policy is available on the website. 

This post involves working with children and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and all subsequent amendments. All convictions, police cautions or “bind overs”, including any that would otherwise be considered “spent” under the Act must be disclosed, and will be taken into account in deciding whether to make an appointment.