We are seeking an enthusiastic, experienced and caring Senior Early Years Practitioner to join our friendly team in Northampton from September 2026. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated early years professional who is passionate about providing exceptional care and education for young children in a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment.
As a Senior Early Years Practitioner, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the setting, leading by example and working closely with colleagues to deliver high-quality learning experiences that promote every child's development and well being.
Start Date: September 2026
Hours: 20 hours per week, Term Time Only (38 weeks per year)
Working Pattern:
Monday: 10:00am - 2:00pm
Tuesday: 10:00am - 2:00pm
Wednesday: 11:15am - 3:15pm, plus a 1-hour staff meeting (fortnightly)
Thursday: 10:00am - 2:00pm
Friday: 10:00am - 2:00pm
Responsibilities
Deliver high-quality care and education in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Act as a positive role model, supporting and mentoring other members of the team.
Plan, deliver and evaluate engaging learning experiences that meet the individual needs and interests of children.
Support children's learning and development through play and purposeful interactions.
Build positive relationships with children, parents and carers, maintaining effective communication.
Complete observations, assessments and children's learning records to a high standard.
Take responsibility as a Key Person for a group of children, ensuring their individual needs are met.
Promote children's well being, independence and confidence.
Ensure the learning environment is safe, stimulating, inclusive and welcoming.
Support children with additional needs where appropriate, working alongside families and other professionals.
Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health and safety, hygiene and welfare at all times.
Contribute to planning meetings, staff meetings and continuous improvement within the setting.
Work collaboratively with the management team to uphold the values and vision of the setting.
Essential Requirements
Level 3 qualification in Early Years (or equivalent recognised qualification).
Experience working within an early years setting.
Sound knowledge of the EYFS and child development.
A good understanding of safeguarding procedures and child protection.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
A positive, reliable and flexible approach to work.
A genuine passion for supporting young children's learning and development.
What We Offer
Term-time-only working (38 weeks per year), providing an excellent work-life balance.
Annual salary of £16,159.
Paid overtime for:
Fortnightly one-hour staff meetings.
Required training days (typically 5-6 hours per day, up to five days each year).
A supportive and welcoming team.
Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
The opportunity to make a real difference in children's early learning experiences.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and any other pre-employment checks required
Salary description
£16159.00 - £16159.00 per year