Bank Staff

Nursery Practitioner

• Free access to our Employee Assistance Programme (provided by BUPA)
• Generous Childcare discount
• Fantastic Transport Links
• Free uniform is provided
• Opportunities across all 11 of our nurseries for progression
• Opportunity to gain further qualifications

• An interest in working with young children (from 0-5 years)
• Team player
• Strong communication skills both written and verbal
• Ability to use initiative
• A passion for the Early Years

Key Responsibilities

• Ensuring the safety and well-being of children at all times.
• Supervising children during indoor and outdoor play, meals, and nap times.
• Maintaining a safe environment by monitoring activities and addressing any potential hazards.

• Assisting in the delivery of age-appropriate learning activities and play.
• Supporting the development of motor, cognitive, and social skills.
• Helping with structured educational activities, such as storytime, arts and crafts, or music sessions.

• Assisting with children’s personal care, including feeding, dressing, changing nappies, and toileting.
• Encouraging good hygiene practices among the children, such as handwashing.

• Engaging with children to promote language development and socialization.
• Providing updates to permanent staff or parents about a child’s progress, behavior, or concerns.
• Maintaining clear communication with colleagues and supervisors.

• Supporting positive behaviour by following the nursery’s policies and procedures.
• Encouraging good manners, sharing, and cooperation among children.

• Documenting children’s attendance, incidents, and progress.
• Keeping records of any accidents, illnesses, or concerns that arise.

• Helping children during mealtimes, including serving food, assisting with eating, and promoting healthy eating habits.
• Ensuring that children with special dietary needs are properly accommodated.

• Working together with other staff members to create a positive and supportive learning environment.
• Assisting the main nursery staff with any other duties or special projects as needed.

• Ensuring that the nursery environment is clean, tidy, and hygienic.
• Reporting any safety hazards or concerns to supervisors.
• Following all health and safety protocols and emergency procedures.

• Being available to work different shifts, as bank staff are often called on an as-needed basis to cover for other staff members.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Communication Skills

• Clear and effective communication is crucial when interacting with children, parents, and other staff members.
• Ability to explain instructions in simple terms to young children.
• Strong listening skills to understand children's needs and concerns and respond accordingly.

2. Patience

• Working with young children requires a great deal of patience as they can be unpredictable, emotional, or slow to learn certain tasks.
• Staying calm in challenging situations and dealing with children’s behaviors in a positive, supportive manner.

3. Child Development Knowledge

• Understanding the physical, emotional, and cognitive development of children is essential for supporting their growth and planning appropriate activities.
• Familiarity with developmental milestones, such as language acquisition and motor skill development.

4. Empathy and Sensitivity

• Being empathetic and understanding the needs, emotions, and perspectives of children.
• Providing emotional support and comfort to children when they feel upset, scared, or frustrated.

5. Organization and Time Management

• Ability to stay organized and manage daily routines, schedules, and activities.
• Efficiently handle multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities.

6. Creativity

• Using creativity to plan engaging and educational activities that support children’s learning.
• Coming up with fun, imaginative games and projects that capture children's interest and stimulate their curiosity.

7. Teamwork and Collaboration

• Nursery assistants need to work well with other staff members, including teachers, other assistants, and management, to create a harmonious environment.
• Helping others and contributing to team efforts, while being able to take guidance and feedback.

8. Flexibility and Adaptability

• Children’s needs and behaviors can change quickly, so being adaptable to different situations is important.
• Willingness to adjust to changes in schedules, roles, or tasks when needed.

9. Behavior Management

• Ability to support positive behavior in children, including setting boundaries and providing consistent discipline.
• Handling tantrums, conflicts, or challenging behavior in a calm and constructive manner.

10. Attention to Detail

• Being observant to ensure children’s safety, health, and well-being at all times.
• Noticing any signs of developmental concerns, illness, or accidents and reporting them to senior staff promptly.

11. First Aid and Health & Safety Awareness

• Basic knowledge of first aid and emergency procedures in case of accidents or injuries.
• Understanding and following health and safety protocols, including hygiene practices, food safety, and ensuring a safe environment.

12. Physical Stamina

• Nursery assistants are often on their feet, moving around and interacting with children throughout the day. Physical stamina is necessary to keep up with the demands of the job.
• Lifting, bending, and kneeling to attend to younger children can also be part of the job.

13. Confidentiality and Professionalism

• Maintaining confidentiality regarding children’s personal information, family matters, and any sensitive issues.
• Professional behavior with both children and adults, including parents and colleagues.

14. Positive Attitude

• A positive, friendly, and approachable demeanor helps create a welcoming environment for both children and their families.
• Encouraging a joyful and upbeat atmosphere, which can help children feel comfortable and engaged.

15. Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

• Being mindful of and respecting the diverse cultural backgrounds of the children and families.
• Understanding the importance of inclusivity, ensuring every child feels valued, regardless of their background or abilities.