Baby Room Practitioner

Qualifications: Early Years Level 3 or above, or demonstrable experience working with babies in a nursery setting

Hours: Up to 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 08:00-18:00

Salary: £28,080 per year (based on full time)

About Us

Puddle Ducks are two new nurseries recently opened in the East Sussex countryside. Salehurst is a picturesque village setting on a working farm, with an all weather garden, farm paddock and old converted stable. Hurst Green is a village nursery, set in a former chapel, with wrap-around gardens on the cusp of acres of Sussex countryside. Our nurseries are perfect for babies and preschool children who would flourish in a smaller, quieter, rural setting with plenty of outside activities.

About the Role

The qualities that make someone exceptional with babies cannot be taught. The natural calm when a child is unsettled, the instinct to nurture, the patience and attentiveness that young children need. These are the qualities we value most.

We recognise that great practitioners are not defined by qualifications alone. If you have hands-on experience working with babies in a nursery setting, we would love to hear from you, whether or not you hold a formal Early Years qualification. For those without a qualification, we will support your professional development from day one, including a funded pathway to an Early Years qualification.

We truly value the role practitioners play in our business, in society and importantly the impact they have on the children they work with. Our commitment is to demonstrate that to you in every aspect of what we do, starting with our employment benefits:

  • Up to 40 hours per week based on a 4 day week
  • Competitive salary with a commitment to pay above both the minimum wage and the living wage, with annual salary reviews and appraisals
  • Full training, mentoring and funded qualification support for those looking to gain or progress their Early Years qualifications
  • 2 wellbeing days per year in addition to your annual holiday allowance
  • Pension
  • Free parking onsite
  • Company funded team events at the end of every term
  • Personal development plans, dedicated time and tools to support your career progression

About You

You have a genuine passion for working with babies and young children. You are naturally nurturing, patient and attentive, and you bring warmth and positive energy to everything you do. You are comfortable engaging with parents and thrive as part of a close, supportive team.

You will either hold a relevant Early Years qualification (Level 3 or above) or have previous experience working with babies in a nursery or childcare setting. What matters most is the care and commitment you bring to the role.

We are committed to safeguarding and the welfare of all children. The position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and suitable references.

Expected start date: Within 2-4 weeks of interview, but flexible

Job type: Full-time, part-time or job share available

Work location: In person at either our Salehurst or Hurst Green nursery