Early Years Educator

Tonbridge, Kent LJ Recruitment Early Years Educator Hours: 35-40 hours per week Salary: £14.00 per hour Reporting to: Room Lead About the Role We are seeking an energetic, enthusiastic and committed Early Years Educator to join our early years team. The successful candidate will take responsibility for a key group of children within the appropriate staff-to-child ratio, supporting their individual development, learning and wellbeing. You will have a sound knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, safeguarding and effective practice within an early years setting. You will work collaboratively with colleagues to provide a safe, nurturing, stimulating and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. Key Responsibilities Take responsibility for a key group of children within the appropriate staff-to-child ratio, supporting their individual development, learning and wellbeing. Plan and support engaging experiences that promote children's development and encourage curiosity, confidence and a positive attitude towards learning. Promote positive behaviour and support children to develop positive relationships and social skills. Maintain accurate daily routines and longer-term developmental, observational and pastoral records using the setting's online management system. Record and update developmental observations, linking these to the relevant EYFS developmental statements and Characteristics of Effective Learning. Prepare termly written reports on the development, progress and attainment of key children within agreed deadlines. Ensure all children in your care are safe, happy, well cared for and fully included in the life of the setting. Develop positive, professional and trusting relationships with children, parents and carers. Act as a buddy/key person where required, helping to provide continuity and consistency of care across the room. Communicate relevant information, incidents and updates appropriately and professionally to parents and carers. Be attentive to individual children's needs during mealtimes, including dietary requirements, allergies and medical needs, ensuring relevant information is kept up to date. Work effectively as part of the wider early years team and communicate relevant information to colleagues and senior staff. Maintain high standards of health, safety, hygiene and cleanliness at all times, following relevant policies, procedures and risk assessments. Contribute positively to the ethos, values and culture of the setting. Undertake any other reasonable duties appropriate to the role. Essential Qualifications Early Years NVQ Level 3 or above, or an equivalent recognised qualification. GCSE Grade 4 or above, or equivalent, in English and Mathematics. Desirable Qualifications Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification. Paediatric First Aid Certificate. Skills, Experience and Personal Attributes The successful candidate will demonstrate: A good understanding of the EYFS curriculum and child development. The ability to create a happy, stimulating, challenging and effective learning environment. A positive, nurturing and child-centred approach. The ability to encourage and inspire children's enthusiasm for learning. Excellent organisational and time-management skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. The ability to work effectively and positively as part of a team. A proactive, flexible and positive "can-do" attitude. Warmth, patience and the ability to build positive relationships with children, colleagues, parents and carers. A strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. An understanding of the importance of confidentiality and professional conduct. A commitment to maintaining high standards of health, safety, hygiene and cleanliness. A willingness to contribute positively to the overall ethos and values of the setting