Early Year Childcare Practitioner

Permanent:    Full-Time (37 hrs/week, 52 weeks/year)
Location:     Hackthorpe, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2HT
Salary:     Dependent on qualification level
Apprentice - NMW rate for an Apprentice £8.00 p/h during first year; NMW for remainder of apprenticeship 
Level 2/Level 3 – PCD5 £25,989 pro rata (hourly rate £13.47)
Start Date: As soon as possible

Join Our Early Years Team
Lowther Endowed School and Little VIPs Day Care are seeking a warm, enthusiastic and committed Early Years Practitioner at Apprentice, Level 2 or Level 3 to join our vibrant, child centred setting. Nestled in the beautiful Eden Valley, we provide a nurturing environment where children thrive and staff feel valued and supported.

About the Role
This role is open to candidates at different stages of their early years career. Whether you are beginning your journey as an apprentice or bringing experience as a qualified practitioner, we will support you to grow and flourish within our team.

Key Responsibilities (Level 2/3)
•    Deliver high quality care and learning opportunities in line with the EYFS
•    Observe, assess, and plan for children’s next steps
•    Build positive and trusting relationships with children, families and colleagues
•    Maintain accurate developmental records
•    Follow all safeguarding, health & safety and statutory requirements

Key Responsibilities (Apprentice)
•    Learn and develop practical skills under the guidance of experienced practitioners
•    Support high quality care and play based learning
•    Contribute to daily routines and interactions with children
•    Work towards achieving your early years qualification

About You
We welcome applicants who are:
•    Apprentices beginning their early years training,
•    Qualified Level 2 Practitioners, or
•    Qualified Level 3 Practitioners.

You should bring:
•    A genuine passion for working with young children
•    A nurturing, positive and proactive approach
•    Good communication and teamwork skills
•    A willingness to learn and develop professionally

All roles are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an Enhanced DBS with Barred List check.

Why Join Us?
Alongside a supportive, friendly working environment, we offer an excellent benefits package:

Staff Benefits
•    Free wraparound care for your own children
•    Reduced nursery fees at Little VIPs Day Care
•    4 day working week for full time staff (condensed hours)
•    Westmorland & Furness Council contract including: 
•    Local Government Pension Scheme
•    25 days annual leave (full time) plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after 5 years of service 
•    Occupational sick pay
•    Free mental health and occupational health support
•    Beautiful rural location with exceptional outdoor learning opportunities
•    Regular CPD and strong support for apprentices and qualified staff
•    The chance to make a meaningful difference in young children’s early lives

Interested? Come and Visit Us!
We warmly welcome visits.

Please contact:
•    Headteacher: Michelle Clark – head@lowther.cumbria.sch.uk
•    Nursery Manager: Hayley Fassam – hayley.fassam@lowther.cumbria.sch.uk

More information: www.lowther.cumbria.sch.uk

How to Apply

Please send completed applications to: head@lowther.cumbria.sch.uk

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