Early Childhood Educator

Company: The Willow On The Farm
Apply for the Early Childhood Educator
Location: Hook Norton
Job Description:

Early Years Educator/Teacher & Key Person ​​

NVQ Level 3 or willing to be trained towards

Location: Willow on the Farm Nursery School ​​ Hook Norton OX15 5DQ

Term-Time (33weeks plus Inset Days) Full-Time 41hrs per week

Monday 8.00-4.00

Tuesday 8.00-5.30

Wednesday 8.00-4.00

Thursday 8.00-4.00 

Friday 8.00-4.00

Start Date: 1 September 2026  

Salary:  £22,000 per annum 

Are you passionate about nurturing young minds and fostering creativity, curiosity, and independence? ​​Willow on the Farm Nursery School is seeking a dedicated Early Years Educator/Teacher & Key Person to join our team and help shape the future of our children through awe and wonder. ​​

About Us: At Willow on the Farm Nursery School, we believe in creating a stimulating and caring environment where children can develop Confidence, Independence, Resilience, a Caring Nature, Courage, Grace, and Courtesy. ​​ Our unique approach combines Montessori principles, Forest School activities, and a commitment to safeguarding and excellence in early years education.

Key Responsibilities: As an Early Years Educator/Teacher & Key Person, you will:

  • Uphold our Vision and Core Values in all aspects of your work. ​​
  • Work together to promote children’s physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and sensory development. ​
  • Perform and log child observations and next steps using My Montessori Child (our education management system). ​​
  • Support children with toileting, including changing nappies and cleaning up accidents. ​
  • Prepare materials, display children’s work, and maintain a clean and safe environment. ​
  • Attend first aid incidents and log them appropriately. ​
  • Participate in staff training programs, regular meetings, and parent events. ​
  • Work collaboratively with Managers and Room Leaders to ensure smooth operations. ​​

What We’re Looking For: We are looking for someone who is:

  • Qualified: Holds a Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification (or similar) and GCSEs in English & Maths (Grade 4/C or above). ​
  • Experienced: Has at least 2 years of recent experience in an Early Years or similar care/education setting, including acting as a Key Person. ​
  • Knowledgeable: Understands EYFS principles, safeguarding practices, and statutory guidance. ​
  • Skilled: Possesses excellent interpersonal, organisational, and communication skills, with the ability to work flexibly as part of a team. ​​
  • Committed: Shares our dedication to safeguarding children and promoting their welfare. ​​

Desirable Skills and Qualifications: ​

  • Paediatric First Aid, Food Hygiene, Safeguarding, Forest School, SENCO, or DSL certifications. ​
  • Experience in a Montessori environment and/or working with children with SEND. ​
  • Knowledge of inclusive practices and cultural diversity in Early Years. ​

Additional Requirements: ​

  • As this post involves regulated activity with children, the successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check 
  • Satisfactory references, and self-disclosure form completion prior to employment. ​​
  • Physical ability to set up and clear away playground equipment and facilitate Forest School activities. ​

Why Join Us? At Willow on the Farm Nursery School, we offer:

  • A supportive and collaborative work environment. ​​
  • Opportunities for professional development and training. ​
  • The chance to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives. ​

How to Apply: If you’re ready to inspire and nurture the next generation, we’d love to hear from you! Please visit our website or contact office@willowonthefarm.co.uk to request an application form. 

Willow on the Farm Nursery School is committed to safeguarding children and promoting their welfare. ​​We follow Safer Recruitment practices as outlined in Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 and Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023. ​

Join us in creating a world of curiosity, awe, and wonder for our children! ​​

Posted: April 1st, 2026