What We Look For in Our Educators
At the heart of our nurseries are passionate, skilled, and caring practitioners who share our commitment to giving every child the very best start in life. We look for individuals who combine knowledge, creativity, and a nurturing spirit to help children feel safe, inspired, and ready to learn every day.
Qualifications
We are looking for experienced practitioners and/or those who hold a minimum of a Level 2 CACHE or NVQ qualification (or higher) in Early Years or Childcare. Applicants should be passionate about working with children, demonstrate a strong understanding of child development, and be committed to delivering high-quality care and education within a supportive team environment.
Passion for Excellence
We are looking for individuals who demonstrate a genuine dedication to delivering the highest quality of care and education. This means going above and beyond to create safe, nurturing, and stimulating environments where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive. A commitment to best practice, continuous professional development, and working in partnership with families and colleagues is essential to ensure children receive the very best start in life.
Warm and Welcoming
We are seeking practitioners who can create a safe, loving, and vibrant environment where children feel secure, inspired, and excited to learn. This involves fostering positive relationships, encouraging curiosity through play and exploration, and ensuring every child feels welcomed and included. By combining warmth and professionalism, our practitioners help children develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Knowledge of EYFS
We are looking for practitioners with a solid understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, who can confidently plan and deliver engaging daily routines that support every area of a child’s development. This includes creating activities that spark curiosity, encourage independence, and build essential skills, while also ensuring that learning is purposeful, inclusive, and enjoyable. The ability to adapt routines to meet individual needs is key to helping every child reach their full potential.
Team Players
We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals who are eager to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young children. With a genuine passion for early years education and care, you will bring energy, positivity, and commitment to every aspect of your role. By supporting children’s growth, encouraging their curiosity, and celebrating their achievements, you will play a vital part in shaping their early experiences and laying the foundations for a bright future.
Career Pathway at Abacus Ark
AssistantEntry level
Entry-level support for room routines while learning EYFS best practice.
- Support care routines, play and supervision.
- Set up activities and tidy learning areas.
- Observe practice and develop skills with mentoring.
Senior AssistantExperienced
Confident assistant trusted with more responsibility and onboarding new colleagues.
- Support group times and key routines effectively.
- Model good practice; buddy new Assistants.
- Help maintain records and environment standards.
Key TeacherKey Person
Key person responsible for learning, care and partnership with parents.
- Plan and deliver high-quality learning experiences.
- Track progress and contribute to assessments.
- Communicate clearly with families.
Senior Key TeacherLead Practice
Leads room practice, mentors others and upholds curriculum & safeguarding standards.
- Coach team members; model pedagogy.
- Oversee learning journals and observation quality.
- Champion environment quality and inclusion.
Learn More About Joining Us.
Our Staff In Action
Client Testimonials
Don’t take our word for it – here’s what our clients say:
“From my very first day, I felt welcomed by a team that truly cares. Abacus Ark has given me incredible opportunities for growth, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without it.”
Abbie
Earlsfield
“I absolutely love how many extra-curricular classes the children get to do -especially forest school, which they adore! The staff are encouraged to keep learning, and the support here has been amazing for both me and my son.”
Alysa
Clapham Junction
“Since joining in 2017, I’ve grown from assistant to manager and always felt supported. Abacus Ark is more than a workplace—it’s a community and a second family.”
Ilaria
Wandsworth
Our Pedagogy in Practice
In practice
Practitioners pause, observe and let curiosity lead before stepping in. Children’s ideas guide planning and language.
Try this: Ask “What are you noticing?” before offering answers.
We Walk in the Shoes of the Child
In practice
Spaces are designed around the child’s journey. Materials are at child height, tones are calm, and areas flex with interests.
Try this: Ask “What does this space invite a child to do?”
We Create Purpose-Driven Environments
In practice
We plan from lived experiences, revisit ideas to deepen understanding, and refine provision collaboratively as a team.
Try this: Note one idea today and build from it tomorrow.
Our Curriculum Is Dynamic & Responsive
In practice
We listen, ask open questions, and scaffold lightly to extend thinking—learning alongside children and modelling curiosity.
Try this: Ask “What do you think might happen?”
Our Teachers Are Facilitators
In practice
We build trusted relationships with families through clear, caring communication and regular learning stories.
Try this: End the day with one strength to share with parents.