Tops Day Nurseries
Nursery Practitioner-Level 2

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Location: Torquay, Devon, United Kingdom
Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Type: Full Time Permanent Salary: £12.76 per hour Hours: 35–40 per week (full-time)
Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?
At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee-owned childcare group, we believe valuing people positions us for success. By joining us, you become more than an employee—you become a co-owner, granted a voice, growth opportunities, and a share in our achievements.
Our collective spans over 30 nurseries across the South of England, where we deliver outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. With roles for apprentices, nursery practitioners, nursery managers, and casual staff, we welcome passionate individuals.
Recognised as a:
- World's Happiest Workplace 2025
- Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024)
About The Role
The Nursery Practitioner plays a vital role in supporting the educational and social development of children up to five years old. Your responsibilities will include:
- Providing a safe learning environment
- Helping children develop social and behavioral skills
- Engaging youngsters in age-appropriate activities and play
You’ll collaborate with a committed team dedicated to delivering care, warmth, and kindness.
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About The Nursery: Tops Babbacombe Nursery
- A 50-place day nursery & preschool located at Babbacombe Road, Torquay
- Offers extra-curricular activities, such as:
- Hi 5s (before/after school club for children up to age 8)
- Boogie Mites (and other enrichment programs)
Why You’ll Love Working Here
At Tops Day Nurseries, we prioritise rewarding our team for their dedication. Here’s what exceptional benefits await:
- Up to 60% discount on childcare at Tops Nurseries across the group
- Exclusive deals via Blue Light Card and Each Person platforms (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel, and more)
- Health & wellbeing support, including:
- NHS prescriptions
- Optical care
- Dental treatment
- Generous holiday allowance, including:
- Your birthday off
- A dedicated wellbeing day
Other fantastic benefits await—explore our Careers page!
Key Responsibilities
The role involves:
- Direct care for children, such as:
- Feeding
- Diaper changing
- Toilet training support
- Creating a safe, clean, and stimulating environment
- Designing and leading age-appropriate activities aligned with:
- Social
- Emotional
- Physical
- Cognitive development
- Observing and tracking progress through play and structured learning, while identifying concerns
- Ensuring safety and emotional support, fostering independent exploration and learning
- Recording child-specific milestones within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework
- Maintaining open communication with parents regarding progress, needs, and any concerns


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Requirements
- Minimum qualification: A Level 2 Early Years Qualification
- Proven knowledge of safeguarding procedures
- Vigilance as this role involves regulated contact with children
Safeguarding Information
All candidates must comply with strict safeguarding policies as this role interacts with vulnerable children. You will need to:
- Hold (or commit to obtaining) an:
- Enhanced DBS check (Note: If unbundled, you will cover the cost yourself)
- Be eligible for regulated childcare roles (not on the Children’s Barred List)
- Successfully pass background checks and provide references
Tops Day Nurseries is an equal-opportunity employer, committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every employee is valued.
Ready to make a difference?
Join Tops Day Nurseries and excel in early years education—where passion, growth, and community thrive!
Apply Now via [our Careers portal].
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