About the School - Welcome to Polam School
Polam School is an independent pre-preparatory school and nursery, with a heritage spanning over 100 years.

Located in the heart of Bedford, our school provides the perfect home from home environment for your child to begin their educational journey, from the age of 1 to 7 years.

With art, swimming and IT all introduced in small groups from an early age, our curriculum goes way beyond national expectations.

The majority of our children progress to the local Harpur Trust, but destinations also include other Cognita Schools, as well as a number of highly regarded state primary schools in Bedfordshire.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Nursery Practitioner to join our fantastic team.

About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, 'Thrive in a rapidly evolving world'

About the role
As a Nursery Practitioner at Polam, you will play a vital role in fostering a safe, stimulating, and caring learning environment for young children. Your primary purpose will be to ensure the well-being and development of the children, adhering to the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. You will be responsible for planning and implementing a balanced range of learning activities that cater to the diverse needs of children aged 0-3 years, while also occasionally supporting older children up to age 11. This role requires you to maintain health and hygiene standards, promote positive relationships with parents, and collaborate with other education professionals. You will uphold the nursery's policies and procedures, ensuring a happy and supportive atmosphere for both children and staff alike.

This is a full-time, permanent role immediately available.

To view the full job description, .

Who we are looking for:
We are looking for dedicated individuals like you, who have a genuine passion for working with young children. You should possess a relevant Nursery Assistant qualification, such as NVQ Level 2 or higher, and demonstrate strong communication skills. A clear understanding of safeguarding practices is essential. We value creativity, adaptability, and ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Previous experience in an Early Years setting and your commitment to promoting equal opportunities for all children will be important attributes that make you the ideal Nursery Practitioner.

Benefits at Cognita
*Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
*Free lunch provided during Term Time
*School holidays and public holidays
*Free parking on site (subject to availability)
*School fee discount
*Exclusive third-party discounts
*Professional Development

How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is Sunday 23rd March 2025.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

EARLY APPLICATIONS ARE ENCOURAGED, WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO INTERVIEW AND APPOINT PRIOR TO CLOSING DATE FOR THE RIGHT APPLICANT