Nursery
Toddler Room Leader - Nursery - Lewisham
Working Pattern: FT / PT available
We are seeking a dedicated, energetic and nurturing Level 3 Practitioner to join the Toddler Room within an independent day nursery.
This role is ideal for a practitioner who understands the unique developmental stage of toddlers – supporting their growing independence, language development, emotional regulation and curiosity about the world. You will play a key role in creating a safe, engaging and stimulating environment that encourages exploration, confidence and positive social interactions.
The ideal candidate will have a warm and patient approach, strong knowledge of toddler development, and at least one year of post-qualification experience within an early years setting.
Key Responsibilities
Childcare and Education
- Provide a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment tailored to toddlers aged approximately 18 months–3 years.
- Plan and implement age-appropriate activities that support language development, physical coordination, social skills and emotional wellbeing.
- Encourage independence through supported self-care routines (toileting, handwashing, feeding and tidying away).
- Observe, assess and record children’s progress in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
- Support children’s behaviour positively, modelling kindness, boundaries and emotional regulation.
- Promote communication skills through songs, stories, small group activities and everyday interactions.
Health and Safety
- Supervise snack and mealtimes, promoting independence and positive eating habits.
- Ensure allergy and dietary requirements are strictly adhered to.
- Support safe sleep arrangements where applicable.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene within the toddler room.
- Conduct daily health and safety checks of the room and equipment.
- Follow safeguarding procedures and report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
- Adhere to all nursery policies and procedures at all times.
Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain a positive and cohesive team environment.
- Support the Room Leader with the day-to-day running of the toddler room.
- Build strong, professional relationships with parents and carers, providing regular feedback on children’s development and wellbeing.
- Participate in staff meetings, training sessions and ongoing professional development.
- Carry out any additional duties as required by the Room Leader or Nursery Manager.
Personal Attributes
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Patience, empathy and a genuine passion for supporting toddlers during this important developmental stage.
- Good organisational and time-management skills.
- Commitment to continuous professional development.
- Physically able to meet the demands of the role, including lifting and supporting toddlers and moving equipment.
- Flexibility to work shifts as required.
Qualifications and Experience
✔ NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (or equivalent).
✔ At least 1 year’s post-qualification experience in a nursery or early years setting.
✔ Good understanding of the EYFS framework, particularly for toddlers.
✔ GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above (or Functional Skills Level 2).
✔ Current Paediatric First Aid certification.
✔ Current Safeguarding certification.
✔ Current Food Hygiene certification.
✔ Enhanced DBS on the update service (or willingness to apply).
If you are passionate about supporting toddlers as they grow in confidence, independence and communication skills, we would love to hear from you.
Other Information
