Montessori Teacher / Early Years Practitioner

Location: Balham

Salary: £27,000 – £30,000 per annum (dependent on experience)

Hours:

• 8.30-6.30 x 2
• 8.00-4.30 x 2
• 8.30-4.30 x 1 

About the Nursery

A high-quality Montessori nursery in Balham is seeking a passionate Montessori Teacher / Early Years Practitioner to join their team. The role involves working with children aged 18 months to 2.5 years, with a maximum of six key children, allowing for truly meaningful, child-centred practice.

The Role

This is an exciting opportunity for a practitioner who is committed to Montessori principles and early childhood development. You will work within a calm, prepared environment that supports independence, curiosity, and respect for each child’s individual pace of learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a key person for up to six children aged 18 months to 2.5 years
• Deliver high-quality Montessori-led practice within the prepared environment
• Observe, assess, and plan in line with the EYFS and Montessori philosophy
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of the Early Years inspection framework and confidently apply it in daily practice
• Build positive relationships with parents, carers, and colleagues
• Ensure safeguarding, health, and safety standards are consistently met

Requirements

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (essential)
• Montessori training is highly desirable, but not essential
• Level 3 practitioners whose practice closely aligns with Montessori principles are welcome to apply
• Confident knowledge of the inspection framework and its practical application
• A reflective, nurturing, and professional approach to working with young children

Extensive training and ongoing support will be provided.

What’s on Offer

• Salary of £27,000–£30,000, with strong opportunities for progression
• Five weeks’ annual leave, plus bank holidays
• Breakfast, lunch, and supper provided on site
• Supportive, well-resourced Montessori setting
• Start date: beginning of April

Best Start Recruitment are here to help you make the right move in your Early Years career. If you meet the criteria above, or would like confidential career advice, please apply ASAP for an informal chat.

We recruit across all Early Years roles, including Nursery Manager, Deputy Manager, QTS, Montessori, Room Leader, and Early Years Practitioner / Nursery Nurse positions.