Early Years Practitioner (Level 3+) – Independent Prep Nursery – Peckham
Salary: £27,500–£32,500 per year
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Location: Peckham Rye, South East London
Start Date: ASAP or January 2027
Join a Welcoming, Family-Oriented Independent Prep Nursery in Peckham
Are you an experienced and passionate Early Years Practitioner looking for a long-term opportunity within a supportive, close-knit and well-established nursery?
We are working with a highly regarded independent prep nursery in Peckham that is looking for a dedicated Level 3+ Early Years Practitioner with at least 3 years' experience to join their team.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is hardworking, enthusiastic and brings a positive, can-do attitude to their work. The nursery prides itself on its welcoming, family-like atmosphere, supportive leadership and strong staff retention, with several team members having been part of the school for 15–20 years.
They are looking for someone who genuinely wants to become part of the school community, build lasting relationships with children and families, and grow within the setting over the long term.
With modern facilities, excellent professional development opportunities, generous annual leave and consistent shift patterns, this is an ideal opportunity for a practitioner looking for stability and career progression.
About the Setting
The nursery part of a respected independent pre-prep school and offers a nurturing, stimulating and welcoming environment where children are encouraged to develop confidence, independence and a lifelong love of learning.
The school has a genuine family feel, with a close-knit team who support one another and are always happy to lend a hand when needed.
Staff wellbeing and professional development are highly valued, and the leadership team actively encourages practitioners to develop their skills through CPD courses, training and ongoing support.
The setting benefits from modern facilities and a positive working environment where staff feel valued, supported and encouraged to contribute.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver high-quality care and education in line with the EYFS framework.
Create a safe, stimulating, inclusive and engaging learning environment.
Plan and deliver creative, age-appropriate activities that support children's learning and development.
Observe, assess and track children's progress, identifying individual learning needs.
Build strong, positive relationships with children, parents and colleagues.
Communicate confidently and professionally with parents, providing regular updates on their child's learning, development and progress.
Support children's emotional, social and educational development.
Promote positive behaviour, independence and confidence.
Work collaboratively with colleagues and the wider school team, offering support wherever needed.
Demonstrate flexibility and a proactive approach to the day-to-day needs of the nursery.
Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health and safety.
Contribute positively to the continued development of the nursery and wider school community.About You
The nursery is looking for someone who will fit naturally into its friendly, hardworking and supportive team.
The ideal candidate will:
Hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification or above.
Have a minimum of 3 years' experience working within an Early Years setting.
Have strong knowledge and understanding of the EYFS framework.
Be hardworking, reliable, enthusiastic and committed to delivering high-quality care.
Bring a positive, can-do attitude and be willing to get involved and help colleagues wherever needed.
Be flexible, adaptable and comfortable supporting different areas of the nursery when required.
Be confident communicating with parents and discussing children's progress, achievements and development.
Have excellent interpersonal skills and enjoy building relationships with children, families and colleagues.
Be proactive, organised and able to use their initiative.
Enjoy working as part of a close-knit team where everyone supports one another.
Be eager to continue learning and developing professionally.
Be looking for a long-term position where they can grow and progress within the school.Above all, the school is looking for someone who genuinely enjoys working with children, takes pride in their work and wants to become a valued member of the team.
Working Hours & Shift Pattern
The nursery operates between 7:30am and 6:00pm, with staff working a split shift rota.
Shifts are typically:
Early shift: 7:30am–4:15pm
Late shift: 8:30am/9:00am–6:00pmShift patterns are agreed and set in advance, with minimal changes, allowing staff to plan their personal commitments and maintain a consistent routine.
The school values flexibility and teamwork, while also recognising the importance of stability and work-life balance.
Salary & Benefits
Competitive salary of £27,500–£32,500 per year, depending on experience.
35 days' annual leave, plus your birthday off.
Nursery closure during the first week of August.
Christmas closure through to New Year.
Consistent, pre-agreed shift patterns to support work-life balance.
Supportive leadership and a genuinely welcoming, family-oriented environment.
Excellent staff retention, with some team members having worked at the school for 15–20 years.
Dedicated time and support for CPD courses, professional training and development.
Opportunities for long-term career growth and progression within the school.
Modern facilities and a well-resourced learning environment.
Childcare discount.
Cycle to work scheme.
Refer-a-friend bonus.
Long-service rewards.Start Date
The nursery is looking for someone to start ASAP or in January 2027, depending on availability.
Safeguarding
Create Education and our partner settings are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This role requires an enhanced DBS check and full pre-employment screening.
Apply Now
If you are an experienced Early Years Practitioner looking for a permanent position within a welcoming, supportive and well-established independent school, we would love to hear from you.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a nursery where staff are genuinely valued, teamwork is encouraged and there is real potential to build a long-term career.
Send your CV to: (url removed)
Call: (phone number removed) for an informal chat.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Work Location: In person
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Work Location: In person
We are committed to safeguarding children. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Prohibited list, Barred list, DBS and Qualifications
