Some children learn best with a paintbrush in their hand. Others need a pair of wellies and somewhere to explore.
Tiny Tots Recruitment is looking for a Level 3 Nursery Practitioner to join a unique early years setting near Leatherhead, Surrey.
Based in the West Horsley countryside, this independent nursery combines the EYFS with Montessori principles and a play-based curriculum. Children are encouraged to develop independence from an early age, explore their own interests and spend meaningful time learning both indoors and outdoors.
The setting has been established for more than 20 years and offers a spacious, purpose-built environment surrounded by countryside, alongside dedicated Forest School opportunities.
What you'll be doing: Providing nurturing, high-quality care and early education Supporting children's development across the EYFS Working with Montessori principles alongside play-based learning Taking responsibility for a group of key children Observing children's development and identifying individual next steps Encouraging children to become confident and increasingly independent Following children's interests and recognising learning opportunities within their play Supporting children's speech, language and communication Creating purposeful and attractive learning environments Making outdoor exploration a meaningful part of children's experiences Building excellent relationships with parents and carers Supporting children with SEND and individual medical or developmental needs Working closely with an experienced and highly qualified nursery team Maintaining high standards of safeguarding, welfare and health and safety Continuing to develop your own knowledge and professional practice What we're looking for: A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years or Childcare qualification Previous experience within a nursery or early years setting Good knowledge of the EYFS Strong safeguarding awareness A genuine interest in Montessori or child-led learning Someone who values children's independence and individual development Confidence communicating with parents, carers and colleagues A warm, calm and nurturing approach Someone comfortable making use of outdoor learning throughout the year A practitioner who wants to continue learning and developing professionally What's on offer: £29,600 to £31,200 per year Permanent, full-time employment Monday to Friday working Established independent nursery environment Training and professional development opportunities Support towards further NVQ development Opportunities to develop Montessori knowledge and qualifications Forest School and nature-based learning environment Purpose-built nursery facilities Countryside setting Experienced and highly qualified team Genuine opportunities to build your early years career
There is a particularly strong professional development culture within the nursery. Existing employees are supported to continue their qualifications, including NVQs and Montessori diplomas, giving practitioners the chance to add something meaningful to their experience rather than simply moving into another standard nursery role.
The nursery's latest Ofsted inspection also highlighted the positive relationships between management and staff, with practitioners reporting that they enjoy working at the setting and feel valued in their roles.
For someone who wants a nursery where independence, nature and individual development genuinely influence everyday practice, this offers something quite different from a large chain environment.
If you're looking for a Level 3 Nursery Practitioner job in Leatherhead, an Early Years Practitioner job in West Horsley or qualified nursery work in Surrey, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today through Tiny Tots Recruitment for a confidential conversation about the opportunity.