Senior Nursery Practitioner (Outdoors)

  • Vero HR
  • Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
  • Jan 30, 2026
Full time Healthcare & Medical

Job Description

We are the recruitment partner for The Peterborough School url removed , a leading Independent Day School in Peterborough, and are delighted to present an opportunity for a Senior Nursery Practitioner (Outdoor) to join the team.

As a Senior Practitioner, you will play a key role in the daily running of the outdoor provision, providing leadership and inspiration to colleagues while creating an engaging, inclusive, and stimulating outdoor learning environment for the children in your care. A genuine passion for outdoor learning in all weather conditions is essential for this role.

Responsibilities:

  • Support the Room Leader and Deputy in leading and inspiring a team of childcare practitioners within the outdoor setting.
  • Plan, lead, and deliver high-quality outdoor learning experiences in line with the EYFS, covering all seven areas of learning.
  • Act as a key person for a group of children, building strong relationships and liaising closely with families.
  • Create and deliver activities that promote personal, social, emotional, physical, and academic development, with a strong focus on outdoor learning.
  • Complete developmental records and online journals to monitor, track, and celebrate each child's progress.
  • Support the day-to-day running of the outdoor provision, stepping into a lead role when required.
  • Ensure inclusion and equality of opportunity for all children, supporting individual needs and promoting positive behaviour.
  • Collaborate with team members and attend planning, curriculum, and training meetings.
  • Model outstanding childcare and outdoor practice, acting as a positive role model for children, colleagues, and apprentices.
  • Support apprentices and new practitioners in developing their skills and confidence within an outdoor learning environment.

Requirements:

  • A Level 3 qualification in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent), completed or working towards.
  • Proven experience of working within an EYFS setting, ideally with outdoor or forest-school-style learning.
  • A strong understanding of safeguarding, early years development, health and safety, and inclusive practice.
  • A genuine enthusiasm for outdoor learning and working in natural environments in all weather conditions.
  • Additional training such as Paediatric First Aid, Food Hygiene, Allergen Awareness, COSHH, or SEN knowledge is desirable.
  • Excellent communication, observation, and organisational skills.
  • An enthusiastic, professional, and proactive approach with a passion for early years education and outdoor learning.
  • Willingness to attend training and contribute to the ongoing success and development of the nursery.

Benefits:

  • A salary of 25,854 - 28,142 per annum dependent on experience
  • Working Hours: 40 hours across Monday-Friday (Shifts: 07:30-16:30, 08:00-17:00, 08:00-18:00 with half a day off)
  • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and closure over Christmas
  • 50% discounted nursery fees
  • Free lunches
  • Free use of the fitness suite
  • Free onsite parking
  • Generous Pension Scheme
  • Learning and progression opportunities, including 3 dedicated paid staff training days across the year

As part of The Peterborough School, you join a supportive family, with a long history of success. Joining the wider team, you will enjoy further benefits that being part of a thriving workplace brings. The Nursery recently expanded too, signalling the school's success and ambition for the future.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).