Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Early Years Practitioner
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Early Years Practitioner
Early Years Practitioner – Kensington & Chelsea Council
Bring energy, care and creativity to the start of a child’s journey
As an Early Years Practitioner, you’ll help shape a child’s first experiences of learning, friendship, and play. By joining a team that brings joy and support to children and their families every day, you’ll create safe, engaging spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to flourish.
Working Style
- Based in Kensington & Chelsea for five days a week
- Key role in serving the local community
- Work on the frontline or behind the scenes, supporting residents’ lives
What You’ll Be Doing
- Join a close-knit, caring team working with children aged 0–5
- Every day is different—building forts, comforting upset children, or helping them express their feelings
- Design fun, engaging activities (indoor and outdoor) to support learning through play
- Hands-on tasks:
- Change nappies
- Prepare snacks
- Encourage independence
- Celebrate small milestones
- Become a key person for a group of children, building strong relationships with their families
- Ensure inclusivity—all children, including those with additional needs, feel welcomed, understood, and included
This is a fast-paced, noisy, sometimes chaotic, and often messy role—always focused on making children feel secure, curious, and cared for.
(For full procedural details, see the Job Description and Person Specification.)
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What You’ll Bring
Essential Qualifications & Skills
- Level 2 Childcare Qualification (recognised by the Department for Education)
- Experience in early years settings (preferred but not mandatory)
- Warm, patient, and energetic personality
- Strong teamwork abilities
- Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow
- Confident parent/carer communication (listening, sharing updates in a collaborative way)
- Understanding of child development (especially two-year-olds and vulnerable groups)
- Knowledge of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and safeguarding guidance
- Enhanced DBS check and First Aid training (or commitment to complete it)
Why Join RBKC?
Investment in Your Development
- Work within a supportive, experienced team with decades of collaboration
- Trust and encouragement are key—new ideas are always welcomed
- Regular training and development opportunities:
- Progress towards becoming a Room Leader
- Deepen your expertise in child development
A Meaningful Mission
- Create a fairer, greener, safer borough for all residents
- Deliver services with care and competence
- Listen to residents, act with integrity, and work together
About Us
Kensington & Chelsea is home to diverse, thriving communities and local places. Our work is focussed on empowering residents through a strong, inclusive approach.
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As an Early Years Practitioner, "Being all in" means:
- Showing up with care and commitment, even on busy days
- Supporting children during challenging mornings and celebrating their growth
- Being someone they feel safe with, day after day
Interview Details & Role Requirements
- Interviews: Week commencing 27th July 2026
- Requirements:
- Enhanced DBS check
- Children’s barred list clearance
Location:
- Clare Gardens Nursery – 349 Westbourne Park Rd, London W11 1EG
- St Quintin’s Nursery – 90 Highlever Rd, London W10 6PN
- Hours: Seven-hour shifts
Ready to Join Us?
Kensington & Chelsea Council is all in. If you share our values and contribute constructively, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply online by explaining how you meet the requirements in the person specification and job description.
Note: P neerlands We reserve the right to extend or close this vacancy early based on candidate volume. Equality & Diversity: We welcome applications from all sections of the community. Disability Confident Employer: We ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible.
Salary: New hires begin at the minimum advertised rate, with annual increases up to the top of the pay scale, plus agreed cost-of-living adjustments.
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