Job Title

Early Years Practitioner

Location

Wheatley, Oxfordshire

Position Type

Full-time / Permanent

About Us

We are a beautiful, boutique independent nursery situated in the Oxford-based village of Wheatley. Unlike usual large corporate childcare chains, we deliberately maintain a smaller, close-knit environment. This allows us to focus deeply on child-led learning, exceptional care, and a calm, nurturing atmosphere for both our children and our team.

We believe that to take the best care of children, we must take the best care of our staff. We are currently seeking a passionate, dedicated Early Years Professional who wants to escape the big-chain burnout and rediscover their love for teaching in a setting they can truly be proud of.

Why Join Our Team?

• A High-Quality Learning Environment: Work in a beautiful, calm, and well-resourced setting where you can genuinely focus on impactful, child-led play without the stress of an overcrowded environment.
• True Work-Life Balance: We actively protect our staff from overwhelming paperwork mountains. We prioritise manageable planning models and robust mental health support so you can leave work on time.
• Exceptional Professional Development: We fully fund and support your career growth. Our comprehensive training program covers everything from core statutory compliance to advanced pedagogy, speech and language development, and neurodiversity. Apprenticeships of all levels are available to those that wish to progress their career and grow with us!
• An Ideal Location: Based in the lovely village of Wheatley, our nursery offers a fantastic community feel, excellent transport links, and easy parking, eliminating the stress of a city-centre commute. We have on-site parking available.
• A Voice That Matters: Being a small team means your ideas are implemented, your creativity is celebrated, and you are recognised as an individual, never just a ratio number.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality care and early education in alignment with the EYFS framework.
• Act as an inspiring Key Person, building secure attachments and strong partnerships with parents.
• Implement creative, child-led learning experiences using "In the Moment" planning and high-quality observations.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment that supports the unique needs of every child, including those with SEND.

Requirements

• A minimum of a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Childcare / Early Years (or equivalent). OR be willing to undertake and complete a Level 3 apprenticeship alongside your role. This can be done through us.
• A solid understanding of the EYFS statutory framework and safeguarding procedures.
• A warm, positive, and collaborative team-player attitude.
• A genuine passion for child development and inclusive practice.

How to Apply

We prefer a personal approach. We invite shortlisted candidates to visit our beautiful nursery, meet our team, and see our space firsthand before any formal interview.

If you are looking to take the next step in your career within a supportive and professional family environment, please submit your CV today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Safer Recruitment & Safeguarding Statement

Our setting is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

• Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Regular reference verification, right-to-work checks, and tracking of employment history gaps will be conducted as part of our strict safer recruitment policy inline with Ofsted and Department for Education guidance.