Early Years Practitioner

Early Years Teacher Location: Barnes, LondonSetting: Little Navigators NurseryHours: Full-timeSalary: £32,000 - 34,000 gross per annumAbout the NurseryLittle Navigators is a calm, attachment-informed nursery, created by a Play Therapist. We offer a nurturing, child-led environment where children feel safe, understood, and confident to explore the world around them.Our approach blends strong relationships, thoughtful environments, and a deep respect for each child’s emotional development.Role OverviewWe are looking for a warm, reliable and enthusiastic Early Years Teacher to join our team. You will support the day-to-day care of children, helping to create a safe, engaging and emotionally attuned environment.This is a wonderful opportunity for someone who is passionate about early years and wants to be part of a reflective, supportive and values-led setting.Teaching & LearningLead high-quality teaching through play and meaningful interactions.Plan and deliver engaging learning experiences that reflect children's interests and developmental needs.Use observations and assessment to support children's individual learning journeys.Adapt experiences to ensure all children, including those with SEND and EAL, can fully participate.Promote children's communication, language and early literacy through everyday interactions.Relationships & WellbeingAct as a key person, building secure, trusting relationships with children and their families.Support children's emotional wellbeing through co-regulation and responsive, relationship-centred practice.Foster children's independence, confidence and self-esteem.CurriculumImplement the Little Navigators curriculum with consistency and creativity.Contribute to the ongoing development of the curriculum, learning environments and teaching strategies.Ensure experiences reflect the nursery's values and educational philosophy.Assessment & DocumentationComplete high-quality observations and assessments.Monitor children's progress and identify any additional support needs.Work alongside external professionals where appropriate.Family PartnershipsBuild strong partnerships with parents and carers.Share children's learning and development through meaningful communication.Contribute to parent meetings, transition arrangements and nursery events.Professional PracticeModel excellent practice and support less experienced colleagues.Participate in reflective practice, supervision and ongoing professional development.Maintain accurate records in line with EYFS and nursery policies.Take responsibility for the organisation and presentation of the learning environment. What We’re Looking ForEssential:A genuine love of working with young childrenWarm, patient and emotionally attuned approachReliable, proactive and a strong team playerGood communication skillsPrevious experience in a nursery or early years settingLevel 3 qualification (or working towards)  Desirable:Interest in child development, attachment or therapeutic approachesSalary & Benefits£32,000 - £34,000 per annum26 days annual leave (+ extra day for each year served up to 5 years) Nursery closed between Christmas and New Year (additional to annual leave)Wellbeing support and supervision embedded into staff cultureOngoing training and professional development opportunitiesEmployee Referral Bonus – Know someone great? Refer them and earn £250 when they joinSafeguardingLittle Navigators is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff are expected to share this commitment.Enhanced DBS check requiredReferences and suitability checks will be carried outWhy Join UsBe part of a nursery that prioritises relationships, emotional wellbeing and thoughtful practice - where both children and staff feel supported, valued and able to thrive.