Early Years Lead Practitioner including Nursery Allowance

Bridgeway Federation is a thriving and inclusive school community comprising Broadway Infant School and The Ridge Junior School in Yate, South Gloucestershire. Guided by the vision of "Learning Together, Inspiring Curiosity and Achieving Our Best", the federation is committed to providing a warm, ambitious and nurturing environment where every child is valued and supported to succeed. With a broad and engaging curriculum, a strong focus on wellbeing, and a culture built on kindness, honesty, determination, inclusion, independence and responsibility, Bridgeway Federation enables children to flourish both academically and personally. Working in close partnership with families and the wider community, the federation is dedicated to ensuring that every child develops the confidence, curiosity and skills needed for future success.

We are delighted to be opening our new school-based nursery in September 2026 and are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated early years practitioners to join our EYFS team - this is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of Bridgeway Nursery!

Working Pattern -

7.45am to 3.45pm  - 4 days a week (inclusive of a 30 min unpaid break)

7.45am to 4.30pm - 1 day a week (inclusive of a 30 min unpaid break)

Term time only, plus 5 INSET days

Job Overview

As a Lead EYFS Practitioner, you will play a key role in delivering outstanding nursery provision, taking lead responsibility for the nursery in the absence of the class teacher, including during PPA time. You will lead and support the nursery team, ensure the safe and effective day-to-day running of the setting, and contribute to the planning, delivery and evaluation of a high-quality EYFS curriculum that promotes children's learning, wellbeing and progress. Working closely with school leaders, parents and external professionals, you will model best practice, support staff development, uphold the highest standards of safeguarding and care, and help create a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child can thrive and achieve their full potential.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above) recognised by the Department for Education. 

• Significant experience working within an EYFS setting, with a strong understanding of the EYFS framework, child development and effective early years practice. 

• Experience of planning, delivering and evaluating high-quality learning opportunities, alongside observing, assessing and supporting children's progress and development. 

• Ability to lead nursery provision in the absence of the class teacher, ensuring the safe, effective and smooth day-to-day operation of the setting. 

• Experience of supporting, guiding or leading colleagues, with the ability to deploy staff effectively, model best practice and promote high standards of teaching, learning and behaviour. 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with children, families, colleagues and external professionals. 

• Sound knowledge of safeguarding requirements and a commitment to promoting the welfare, wellbeing and inclusion of all children. 

• Strong organisational skills, the ability to use initiative, make informed decisions and work effectively as part of a team. 

We can offer you:

• A warm and welcoming school community

• A brand-new nursery environment with continuous indoor and outdoor free flow provision

• A supportive and knowledgeable Senior Leadership Team with a strong understanding of Early Years practice

• Access to high quality professional development, including EYFS focused CPD, coaching and a developing Nursery network within our Trust

• Happy, confident and diverse children who make every day rewarding and joyful

• Term-time only working hours

• An employee Assistance Programme which offers advice, support and counselling

• Local government pension scheme

• Free breakfast club (school or nursery) if your child attends Bridgeway Federation