Early Years Practitioner, Level 3

Job Description: EYFS Practitioner, Pre-School

Widford Lodge Pre-school are looking for a friendly, caring person to join our team to start from 2nd May 2026. This position is full-time and for a fixed term to 11th July 2026, covering maternity leave, and will be over five days a week. There is a probability that this role will become a permanent role.

Applications must be made on the application form available from the school's website www.widfordlodge.co.uk

Job Purpose:

The Pre-School Practitioner is responsible to the School Proprietor, Headteacher and Head of Pre-School.

Reporting to:

Head of Pre-school

Duties:

Duties will include:

• The planning and preparation of activities, to meet children's individual needs. Observing and assessing key children. Maintaining development records.
• Keeping online learning journeys for each pupil
• Preparation, care, cleanliness and maintenance of the playrooms and equipment.
• Positive management of children's behaviour.
• Supervision of snack and lunch times.
• The care and supervision of the children with regard to their physical, emotional and intellectual needs. Contribute to the maintenance of pupils' safety and security.
• Liaising with parents ensuring effective communication within the Pre-School.
• Participating in Parents’ Evenings and report writing.
• Offering all children equal opportunities with regard to their religion, racial origins, gender, disabilities, cultural or linguistic background.
• Adhering to the school’s policies and procedures. Maintaining confidentiality in the Pre-School.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

• Working as part of a team.
• Providing a good role model.
• Keeping and monitoring accident, incident and risk assessment records.

Support for the school

• Attending staff meetings.
• Reviewing and developing their own professional practice.
• Any other duties appropriate to the post as directed by the school Proprietor, Head teacher and Pre-School Supervisor.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 15 months

Salary: £18,000.00-£20,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

School type:

• Preschool
• Primary school

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Chelmsford, CM2 9AN: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Experience:

• Nursery: 1 year (preferred)
• Childcare: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: One location

Application deadline: 22/08/2026
Reference ID: Pre-school maternity cover May 23
Expected start date: 22/05/2026