Childcare Practitioner

Ready to nurture young minds through care, creativity and play?

Due to continued expansion, Itchen College Nursery is delighted to invite applications for a confident, enthusiastic and experienced Childcare Practitioner to join our friendly and supportive team.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated early years professional who is passionate about creating a warm, inspiring and nurturing environment where children can thrive. Working as part of an outstanding nursery team, you will help to deliver high-quality care and engaging learning experiences that support every child’s development.

If you are energetic, flexible and committed to making a real difference in children’s lives, this could be the perfect next step in your childcare career.

If you are ready to bring creativity, care and enthusiasm to an outstanding early years setting, we want to hear from you.

Why Join Itchen College Nursery?

Working with us means becoming part of a supportive and dynamic nursery team with a strong commitment to quality and professional growth. We offer: Good rates of pay Holiday pay included 2 weeks off at Christmas plus all Bank Holidays Access to the College pension scheme Continuous professional development training Incentives and opportunities to progress further professionally A positive and encouraging working environment Part-time hours considered as part of a job share

Hours: 37 hours per week, 39wks per year (term time only) Job share will be considered
Salary: SCP 5-7 currently FTE £25,159 – £25,951 pro rata, per annum
Actual Salary: SCP 5 £21,578 p/a
Closing Date: 31st July2026
Interview Date: To be advised
Start Date: September 2026
Itchen College is a thriving Sixth Form College with a broad curriculum offer to meet the needs of the local community. The college is situated in pleasant surroundings to the east of Southampton with excellent local transport links. Ofsted inspected the college in September 2024, grading overall provision as Outstanding with Outstanding Quality of Education, Outstanding Behaviour and Attitudes, Outstanding Leadership and Management, Outstanding Education Programmes for Young People and Outstanding Provision for Learners with High Needs.
The college is committed to supporting staff wellbeing and professional development. The college has an excellent in house CPD programme for all teaching and support staff including a dedicated programme for Early Career Teachers. The college also has close links with the Southampton Education Forum, the Wessex Group and the SFCA, including subject groups and CPD opportunities at all levels. The college offers a wide range of benefits for staff including free parking, an onsite nursery, occupational pension schemes, an Employee Assistance Programme and free use of the college gym.

Key Responsibilities

Support children’s learning, development and wellbeing through high-quality care and play-based activities Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate experiences in line with the EYFS Create a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment where every child can flourish Support children with a range of needs, including those with SEND, in line with the SEND Code of Practice Work closely with colleagues to maintain excellent standards of practice across the nursery Build positive relationships with children, parents and carers Promote safeguarding, health, safety and hygiene at all times Bring creativity, flexibility and enthusiasm to a busy early years setting

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Childcare and Education
A strong understanding of the EYFS and SEND Code of Practice
A flexible, hands-on approach with a passion for supporting young learners
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
A warm, caring and proactive attitude
GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Maths is desirable
Availability to work between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, with shift patterns to be discussed at interview and the option to work your hours over 4 days

Workplace Benefits

Values-driven culture - we’re really proud of our culture. We’re looking for someone who is as driven by our college values as we are!
Learning and Development - access to support and resources to drive your own development.
Free parking - free on-site parking, as well as good public transport links.
Eyecare Scheme
Cycle2Work Scheme
Free On-site Gym & Sports Facilities
Free Flu Jabs
Free Hot Drinks for Staff
Canteen - freshly prepared food with plenty of choice.
1 Life Event Day - to recognise life’s big moments like a wedding, graduation, moving house.
Staff Discount Schemes - discounts and deals on national attractions, entertainment, days out, theme parks, holiday insurance and many national retailers.
Employee Loyalty Celebration Reward Scheme - cash and rewards to acknowledge and celebrate staff commitment and loyalty to the College.
On-Site College Nursery with priority given to college staff
Access to College Library
Free College WiFi
Compassionate Leave - up to 5 days paid time off to attend to matters relating to the death or serious illness of a loved one.
Counselling Service - Access to qualified therapy-based support.
Pension Scheme - Enrolment to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) (eligibility criteria applies).
Occupational Sick Pay
Enhanced Family Leave