We Are Hiring!
The Deputy Manager plays a key leadership role in supporting the effective running of Acre Wood. They must hold a PDA in Childhood Practice and be working towards a BA in Childhood Practice. Working closely with the Manager, the Deputy is responsible for supporting the development, management, and continuous quality improvement of the setting.
They will also act as the Designated Health & Safety Officer, ensuring the nursery remains fully compliant with all relevant legislation and standards. The Deputy Manager is expected to lead by example, support staff in practice, and step into ratio when needed to maintain continuity of care and reduce the need for external cover.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the Manager in providing high-quality, inclusive learning experiences for all children.
- Ensure a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment that promotes children’s learning and wellbeing.
- Take an active role in curriculum planning, ensuring it is child-centred and meets national guidelines.
- Monitor staff practice, offering guidance, feedback, and support for ongoing development.
- Support the Manager in ensuring all staff uphold their duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of every child.
- Follow and uphold all nursery policies and procedures consistently.
- Contribute to the setting’s ongoing self-evaluation and improvement planning.
- Support and manage other staff, including mentoring new team members, students, and apprentices.
Practitioners are required to hold an HNC in Childhood Practice or an SVQ Level 3 in Social Services (Children and Young People). They are responsible for identifying and meeting the care, support, and learning needs of children aged 0–5 years.
Practitioners must work effectively as part of a team and provide high-quality learning experiences tailored to the needs of their room or group.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the care, learning, and development of children aged 0–5 years, meeting each child’s individual needs.
- Plan and deliver engaging, child-centred experiences that promote curiosity, independence, and learning.
- Observe, assess, and record children’s development to inform planning and next steps.
- Foster children’s independence and support them in developing key skills across all areas of learning.
- Build positive relationships and engage effectively with parents and carers.
Early Years Assistants play a key role in supporting the day-to-day care and learning of our youngest children. Those in this role will be supported to work towards a relevant qualification, such as an NC in Childhood Practice or an SVQ Level 2 in Social Services (Children and Young People).
Early Years Assistants work under the guidance of qualified practitioners to help create a warm, caring, and stimulating environment where every child feels safe, valued, and supported in their development.
Key Responsibilities:
- Work under the supervision of experienced practitioners to support the care and learning of children aged 0–5 years.
- Assist in delivering play-based experiences that meet the needs and interests of individual children.
- Interact warmly and responsively with children, following their lead and encouraging their independence.
- Observe and learn from practitioners to build your knowledge, confidence, and skills in early learning and childcare.
Our Nursery Cook plays an important part in supporting the health and wellbeing of every child at Acre Wood. The Cook is responsible for preparing nutritious, home-cooked meals and snacks each day, in line with dietary requirements and food safety standards.
This role is about more than just cooking—it’s about creating a positive food culture and helping children develop healthy habits for life. The Nursery Cook works closely with the team to ensure mealtimes are calm, enjoyable, and inclusive experiences for all children.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and serve healthy, balanced meals and snacks that meet the nutritional needs of young children.
- Cater for specific dietary requirements and allergies, following individual care plans and ensuring strict hygiene practices.
- Maintain a clean, organised kitchen in line with food hygiene regulations and health and safety standards.
- Plan menus in consultation with management, considering seasonal ingredients, children’s preferences, and nutritional guidance (e.g., Setting the Table).
- Support a positive mealtime environment by working alongside practitioners to promote independence and encourage children to try new foods.