DescriptionLittle Elms is a family run business where people really matter, feel valued and have a voice. Whilst all of our nurseries provide exceptional levels of quality care and education, they are all completely unique! Our Peninsula nursery are looking for Nursery Assistants and Nursery Nurses to work as bank staff covering shifts working on a zero hours contract.Benefits on offer include:
Hourly Rate: £12.21-£13.50 per hour
Free access to our Employee Assistance Programme (provided by BUPA)
Generous Childcare discount
Fantastic Transport Links
Free uniform is provided
Opportunities across all 10 of our nurseries for progression
The ideal candidate must have:
A full & relevant Level 2 or above qualification in Early Years
Experience working in a nursery
An interest in working with young children (from 0-5 years)
Team player
Strong communication skills both written and verbal
Ability to use initiative
A passion for the Early Years
* This position is subject to an Enhanced DBS Certificate and employment references *
* Little Elms Day care Nurseries are an Equal Opportunities Employer *
Little Elms Day care Nurseries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
The successful applicant will be required to undertake online safeguarding training and all positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Key Responsibilities
1. Childcare & Wellbeing
Provide a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, secure, and supported.
Build positive, respectful relationships with children and respond to their individual needs.
Follow safeguarding procedures and report concerns promptly.
2. Supporting Daily Routine
Assist in delivering age-appropriate activities that align with the nursery’s curriculum.
Help with routines such as nappy changing, toileting, mealtimes, and sleep/rest periods.
Support room teams in maintaining structure, calm transitions, and positive behaviour guidance.
3. Team Support
Work collaboratively with the room team, following direction and being proactive in offering help.
Communicate clearly with colleagues and contribute to a positive, team-oriented atmosphere.
Step in wherever needed — across different rooms or age groups — with a can-do attitude.
4. Health & Safety
Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in all areas, following infection control and food safety guidelines.
Conduct regular headcounts and risk assessments as required.
Ensure children are always supervised and the environment remains safe and stimulating.
5. Professional Conduct
Uphold the nursery’s values and high standards of care at all times.
Respect confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in all interactions.
Arrive on time, dressed appropriately, and ready to step into whichever room needs support.
6. Flexibility & Availability
Be available at short notice and adaptable to different rooms, shift patterns, or working styles.
Respond to booking requests in a timely manner and keep availability up to date.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Flexible & Adaptable – Confident working in different rooms and age groups.
Great Communicator – Warm, clear, and professional with both children and adults.
Team Player – Supports the room team and follows established routines.
Child-Focused – Understands basic child development and puts children’s needs first.
Safeguarding Aware – Knows how to spot concerns and escalate appropriately.
Reliable & Ready – Can be called on at short notice and always comes prepared.
Benefits
Flexible Hours – Choose shifts that fit around your life and schedule.
Experience Variety – Work across age groups and settings to grow your skills.
Career Progression – Opportunities to transition into permanent roles.
Warm, Supportive Team – Be part of a welcoming, values-led environment.
Ongoing Training – Access to CPD and early years resources to keep you growing, through National College
Make a Real Impact – Support children’s development in meaningful ways.
Bupa Employee Assistance – Free 24/7 wellbeing, mental health & counselling support.
Little Elms is an established nursery that aims to provide the highest standards of care for children aged between 3 months and 5 years.
A family-run business, we believe that a fun and a caring environment is crucial to happy and healthy development.
Our nurseries offer state-of-the-art facilities, combining bright and spacious rooms indoors with fabulous outdoor areas. Our experienced and motivated team provides a stimulating yet safe environment for creative play. Little Elms takes pride in being a friendly setting in which each child’s physical, emotional and developmental needs are met. Every child is special and is encouraged to achieve his or her full potential in the precious pre-school years.
Established in 2009, we have 11 nurseries across South London.
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