Early Years Practitioner | Braintree | £14.00ph Umbrella / £26,499 per annum| Temp-to-Perm Opportunity
Location: Braintree
Rate: £26,499 per annum, £14.00 per hour (Umbrella)
Hours: 40 hours per week – 4 full days + 1 half day
Days: Monday to Friday

Are you passionate about early childhood development and ready to make a real difference in the lives of children? Elect Recruitment is seeking a dedicated Early Years Practitioner to join a vibrant and nurturing nursery setting in Braintree. This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a purpose-driven organisation that puts children first — and supports your growth, too.

What You’ll Be Doing:

As part of the Early Years team, you’ll play a key role in creating a warm, stimulating, and inclusive environment where every child feels safe, seen, and supported. You’ll contribute to the delivery of high-quality care and education in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and be an integral part of a team that’s committed to children’s wellbeing and development.

Key Responsibilities:

Support and supervise indoor and outdoor play experiences that meet children’s individual needs.
Build positive, trust-based relationships with parents/carers, sharing relevant info around each child’s development.
Promote inclusive practices that celebrate diversity, regardless of background, beliefs, or abilities.
Maintain a safe, clean and nurturing environment following all health, safety, and safeguarding protocols.
Be alert to child protection concerns and escalate as per policy.
Keep accurate records and contribute to ongoing planning and assessments.
Work in line with all nursery policies, procedures, and compliance standards.

What We’re Looking For:

Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years Qualification
Paediatric First Aid and Food Hygiene certificates (or willingness to obtain)
Experience working in a childcare setting with children aged 0–5 years
Understanding of EYFS, safeguarding, and the developmental needs of young children
Confident communicator and strong team player with a can-do, creative attitude
Digital literacy for recording observations and planning
Awareness of special educational needs and inclusive practice

Additional Requirements:

If you’ve lived outside of the UK in the last 5 years, an International Police Check is required
A clear Enhanced DBS check will be required prior to start
All staff must promote equality, diversity and inclusivity in the workplace

Bonus If You Have:

Experience supporting children with additional needs
A mentoring attitude to support junior staff, students or apprentices (Level 3+)
Willingness to undertake CPD or specialist roles such as SENCO, PANCO, Forest School Lead

What’s in it for you?