There are many Early Years roles available in Hertfordshire. You could work in a nursery or reception class in a school, a standalone nursery school, a family centre, or a private preschool or day nursery.
Early Years Teachers (EYTs) and Early Years Practitioners (EYPs) support the care, learning and development of children aged 0–5. They may work in schools or in private, voluntary and independent (PVI) settings. Some roles require an NVQ Level 3 qualification in Early Years..
Below is just some of the roles you may find in an Eary Years setting. Please note Job titles and responsibilities may vary between settings.
- Nursery or Reception Class Teacher (QTS required)
You’ll plan and deliver lessons for children aged 3–5, following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Teachers lead learning, monitor progress and work closely with support staff and parents to give children the best start to school life.
- Teaching Assistant / Learning Support Assistant
Assist teachers in delivering lessons and supporting children’s learning. Tasks may include preparing activities, supporting small groups and helping children with additional needs. No formal qualification is required, but experience or a Level 2/3 TA qualification is beneficial.
- Early Years SENCO (Level 3 + SENCO qualification)
Specialise in supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Duties include creating support plans, working with external agencies and guiding colleagues to ensure every child can access learning.
- Early Years Practitioner / Senior Practitioner (Level 2+)
Work directly with babies and young children to support learning, play and care routines. Practitioners often lead small group activities and help create a safe, stimulating environment. Senior practitioners may take on additional responsibilities such as mentoring junior staff.
- Early Years Educator / Nursery Nurse (Level 3)
Provide high-quality care and learning experiences, plan engaging activities and track children’s development. A Level 3 qualification allows you to take on more responsibility, including key-person duties and supporting children with SEND.
- Room Leader (Level 3 or higher)
Oversee the day-to-day running of a nursery room or class. Responsibilities include supervising staff, planning activities, monitoring children’s progress, and ensuring the setting meets EYFS and safeguarding standards.
- Early Start Team (Family Support / Early Start roles)
Support families and young children through home visits, groups and targeted interventions. Roles vary from Level 2 community support to degree-level family workers and early intervention specialists, often in partnership with health and social care teams.
- Administrator / Finance & Data Assistants (Level 2/3)
Provide essential office, finance, and data support to Early Years settings. Tasks might include managing registers, processing funding claims, handling enquiries, and keeping records up to date.