LITTLE EXPLORERS, BIG FUTURES

Join The AMAZING TEAM AT JC LITTLE EXPLORERS!

At JC Little Explorers, we believe that the early years are the foundation for everything that comes next. Our mission is to create a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive, explore, and grow.

About JC LITTLE EXPLORERS

We are proud to be a trusted partner in shaping bright futures, offering a child-led, curiosity-driven approach to early years education.

With three vibrant locations across Hampshire and West Sussex and our unique JC Sports programme, we invite you to be part of our passionate team that makes every moment count for the little ones in our care.

Benefits Of Working At JC LITTLE EXPLORERS

At JC Little Explorers, we understand that our staff are our most valuable asset. That’s why we offer a range of benefits to support your professional growth and personal well-being:

Discounts on Childcare

Competitive Starting Salary & Bonuses

Membership Discounts

Paid Holiday Time Off

Regular Team Training Days

Free Uniform

Paid Training Initiatives

Apprenticeships to Further Your Career

Get Our Recruitment PDF

Learn more about our company values and what we can offer you… PLUS get a list of top 10 interview tips!

Our Mission

At JC Little Explorers, we are committed to providing the highest quality care and education for children aged 9 months to 5 years. We believe in empowering children to be independent, curious, and confident through meaningful, play-based learning experiences.

Our vision

To create an environment where every child is celebrated as a unique individual. We strive to foster a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, building strong relationships with families and the community, while continuously innovating our educational approach to meet the needs of each child.

Our Values:

Child-Centered Approach: Every child is unique, and we tailor our teaching to suit their individual needs and interests.

Safety & Wellbeing: We prioritize the safety, emotional, and physical wellbeing of every child in our care.

Collaboration with Families: We believe in the power of partnership between our educators and families to support the child’s development.

Excellence in Education: We maintain high standards of early childhood education, integrating creativity, outdoor learning, and life skills into our daily activities.

Current Vacancies

We’re currently looking for passionate, dedicated professionals to join our growing team. We have the following positions available:


Qualified Nursery Practitioner

Responsible to: Room Leader / Deputy Manager / Nursery Manager

Location: JC Little Explorers Southbourne

Hours: Full-time

Salary: (depending on experience and qualifications)

Purpose of the Role

To provide high-quality early years education and care within JC Little Explorers, ensuring the safety, welfare, and individual development of every child in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Ofsted requirements. Qualified Nursery Practitioners work as part of a team to create a stimulating, safe, and inclusive environment where children can learn and thrive.

Key Responsibilities

1️⃣Care and Education

- Provide a warm, nurturing, and safe environment for all children.

- Deliver high-quality teaching and learning experiences following the EYFS.

- Observe, plan, and assess children’s development in partnership with parents and colleagues.

- Support each child’s key-person relationship and ensure records are accurate and up to date.

- Promote independence, curiosity, and emotional well-being through play.

2️⃣Safeguarding and Welfare

- Follow all JC Little Explorers safeguarding and child protection procedures.

- Report any concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

- Ensure the health and safety of children by conducting regular risk assessments.

- Maintain cleanliness, hygiene, and organisation of play and learning areas.

- Adhere to all policies including mobile-phone use, confidentiality, and data protection.

3️⃣Partnership with Parents and Carers

- Build positive, professional relationships with parents and carers.

- Share daily feedback, developmental progress, and next steps with families.

- Support new families during settling-in sessions and transitions.

- Respect confidentiality and promote inclusive practice at all times.

4️⃣Teamwork and Professional Practice

- Work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain a supportive team environment.

- Attend staff meetings, training, and supervision sessions.

- Reflect on and improve personal practice in line with feedback and professional development goals.

- Support new or trainee staff members when required.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

- Minimum Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years Education / Childcare qualification (or equivalent).

- Sound understanding of the EYFS and child development.

- Enhanced DBS check and up-to-date Paediatric First Aid certificate (or willingness to obtain).

- Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Desirable:

- Experience working in a nursery or preschool setting.

- Knowledge of SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) support.

- Food Hygiene / Safeguarding Level 2 certificates.

Skills and Attributes

- Passionate about providing outstanding early years experiences.

- Kind, patient, and caring approach to children and families.

- Organised, reliable, and able to use initiative.

- Commitment to equality, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

Safeguarding Statement

JC Little Explorers is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. Employment is subject to an Enhanced DBS check, reference verification, and ongoing suitability assessments.

If you’re interested in joining our team, fill in the form below: