Toddler Room Leader – Nursery – Lewisham

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.

If you are passionate about working with children and have the requisite skills and qualifications, we would love to hear from you.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• At least one years post qualification work experience in a nursery setting.
• Good understanding of the EYFS framework, particularly for toddlers.
• 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.

• NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (or equivalent).
• GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above (or Functional Skills Level 2).

• Current Paediatric First Aid certification.
• Current Safeguarding certification.
• Current COSHH certification.
• Current Food and Hygiene certification.

• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Physically able to carry out the requirements of the role.
• Flexibility to work various shifts as needed.
• Enhanced DBS on the update service (or willingness to apply for one)*.