Job description

Are you passionate about nurturing young minds and creating a strong foundation for early learning?

GSL Education are welcoming dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to apply for the role of Early Years Practitioner in Southampton, Hampshire. This full-time, permanent position is based in a mainstream primary school, with immediate and post-summer starts available.

Job Title: Early Years Practitioner
Location: Southampton, Hampshire
Salary: £12.82 per hour
Start Date: Immediate or After Summer 2025 start
Contract: Full-time, permanent

About the Role:

As an Early Years Practitioner, you will support the development and education of children within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Working closely with class teachers and EYFS leaders, your role will involve promoting learning through play, developing key skills, and nurturing each child's unique potential.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist in delivering engaging and age-appropriate activities that support the EYFS curriculum.
  • Build strong, trusting relationships with children and their families.
  • Support children’s physical, emotional, and social development through structured and free play.
  • Observe and assess progress, helping to track developmental milestones.
  • Work closely with teaching staff to adapt activities for children with varying needs.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and inclusive classroom environment.

Job Requirements:

  • A relevant qualification in Early Years Education (such as a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education, NVQ in Early Years, or equivalent).
  • Previous experience working as an Early Years Practitioner is essential, with a solid understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
  • A genuine passion for working with young children and supporting their development.
  • A strong understanding of child protection and safeguarding policies.
  • Patience, creativity, and excellent communication skills.
  • Experience with Special Educational Needs (SEN) is desirable and considered an advantage.
  • Have an updated CV (covering the last ten years, barring any unexplained gaps) and an enhanced DBS registered to the Update Service (or be willing to apply for one).

Why Join GSL Education?

  • Attractive hourly rate of £12.82.
  • Full-time, long-term role in a nurturing and well-supported school setting.
  • Ongoing guidance and support from a dedicated GSL consultant.
  • Opportunities for professional development and future career progression in education.

If you have the drive to inspire early learners and want to be part of a committed team in a thriving school environment, we would love to hear from you. Apply today for the Early Years Practitioner position in Southampton, Hampshire with GSL Education.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks, including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service or completing an application for a new check.

As an ethical, inclusive and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff in schools across the UK.

For more information or to register your interest in the ‘Early Years Practitioner’ role, or to be considered, please click ‘apply now’ to submit your full and up-to-date CV and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch.