Tops Day Nurseries
Senior Early Years Educator
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Senior Nursery Practitioner
Location: Bearwood, Dorset, United Kingdom Dorset
Job type: Full Time Permanent
Salary: £13.80 Hour
Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week
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 know that valuing people is the key to success. When you join us, you become more than an employee you become a co-owner with a voice, opportunities to grow, and a share in our success.
With over 30 nurseries across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. With opportunities for Apprenticeship, Nursery practitioners, Nursery Managers & Casual staff, we are always looking for passionate individuals to join us.
We’re proud to be recognised as a World’s Happiest Workplace 2025 and one of the Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024).
About The Role
Our Senior Nursery Practitioner is an experienced early years professional who provides high-quality care and education to young children while also taking on leadership responsibilities within the nursery. You will serve as role models to our colleagues and help maintain the standards of care and learning in the nursery.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Why You’ll Love Working with Us
At Tops Day Nurseries, we believe in rewarding our team for their hard work and dedication. Here are some of the fantastic benefits you’ll enjoy as part of our family.
£700 Welcome Bonus to kick-start your journey with us Relocation support of up to £3,000 (T&Cs apply) ** Welcome Bonus and Relocation packages are not cumulative Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more) Health & wellbeing support- NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment A generous holiday allowance- including your birthday off & a wellbeing day!
As well as many more exciting benefits! You can view the full list on our page or Careers website!
What does the role involve?
Deliver outstanding childcare that promotes children’s safety, well-being, and development. Support children’s learning through age-appropriate activities and play that meet developmental milestones. Observe and assess children’s progress and maintain detailed records to ensure that each child’s needs are met. Lead and guide nursery practitioners, assistants, and apprentices within the room or nursery. Ensure learning activities are tailored to the individual needs of each child and encourage their cognitive, emotional, and social development. Assist the Room Manager or Nursery Manager in maintaining the smooth operation of the room or nursery.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
What are we looking for?
A minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification is required. Extensive experience working in a nursery or childcare setting. Have a solid knowledge of the EYFS Have a strong understanding of safeguarding procedures
Important Safeguarding Information
Because this role involves regulated activity with children, all candidates must:
Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service. If you don’t yet have one, you’ll need to cover the cost. Be eligible to work in regulated roles- not on the Children’s Barred List. Successfully complete background and reference checks.
At Tops Day Nurseries, we are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Apply Now
Excited to make a difference? Take the next step in your career and join Tops Day Nurseries
#INDMP
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills