Early Childhood Educator

Early Years Practitioner – Join a nurturing environment where every moment matters

Job Title: Early Years Practitioner

Location: Akeley Wood School, Akeley, Buckingham

Salary: £26,436.80 per annum

Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8am–5pm or 9am–6pm

Contract: Permanent | 52 weeks

Holiday: 25 days + bank holidays

Akeley Wood Junior School is a warm, vibrant and caring community set within stunning rural surroundings near Buckingham. Our Nursery provides a joyful, stimulating and secure space where children aged 12 months to 4 years can explore, play and learn with confidence.

We are seeking an enthusiastic, caring and dedicated Early Years Practitioner to join our Early Years team. We are also open to applications from apprentices, making this a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to begin—or further develop—a rewarding career in early childhood education.

The Role

As an Early Years Practitioner, you will:

• Provide high‑quality physical, emotional, social and intellectual care for children in our Nursery.
• Support the planning and delivery of creative, age‑appropriate activities tailored to individual needs.
• Build warm, trusting relationships with children and families, ensuring clear and positive communication.
• Act as a Key Worker, observing and documenting each child’s progress with care and accuracy.
• Model a calm, nurturing approach and promote positive behaviour.
• Maintain a safe, clean and stimulating environment with consistently high standards of care and hygiene.
• Support daily routines including mealtimes, rest, play and transitions.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure a welcoming, inclusive and supportive setting.

Our Nursery operates for 51 weeks of the year, with shift patterns of 8.00am–5.00pm or 9.00am–6.00pm on a weekly rota.

About You

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• A Level 3 childcare qualification (or above).
• Experience working in a nursery or Early Years setting.
• A warm, empathetic and energetic approach to working with young children.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues and parents.
• An understanding of safeguarding, child development and safe working practices.
• Flexibility, resilience and a genuine passion for helping children flourish.

Experience supporting children with SEND or additional qualifications such as First Aid would be an advantage.

Why Join Akeley Wood Junior School?

You’ll join a dedicated, friendly and supportive Early Years team who share a deep commitment to nurturing young children and helping them grow into confident, curious learners.

You will enjoy:

• A caring, highly supportive working environment
• A beautiful, nature‑rich setting to enhance learning
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• A team culture built on collaboration, creativity and kindness

Safeguarding Commitment

Akeley Wood School and Blenheim Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff must follow safeguarding policies and complete relevant training. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and social media checks.

We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications.