About This Role
Merrywood Education is a well established Independent Special school for pupils aged 5-16 years of age. We are professional, warm and caring school. Our goal is to support professional growth and development, through working in a safe culture. Merrywood Education is a special needs provision for pupils aged 5 -16 years of age. We offer a lot of career development opportunities, including trauma informed diplomas, specialist certification and more. We are currently seeking a dedicated Early Years Practitioner to join our team and support the development and learning of children in our play based classroom for children in Early Years/ KS1 with Special Educational Needs.
Position: Early Years Practitioner
Location: Merrywood House School, Abinger Campus, Abinger Lane, Abinger Common, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6HZ
Contract Type: Full-time (38 hours per week)
Expected Start Date: September 2026 or potentially earlier
Job Description:
As an Early Years Practitioner at Merrywood House Specialist School, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children who have a range of special educational needs. You will work closely with colleagues to deliver engaging activities that promote children's physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development.
We are looking for someone with - Ability to create a warm and caring environment for children - Strong behaviour management
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Patience, empathy, and understanding towards children's needs
- Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with other staff members
- CPR and First Aid certification (preferred)
- Early Years Practitioner, Nursery nurse or equivalent qualificationResponsibilities:
- Provide a safe and nurturing environment for pupils in school, using play-based strategies
- Plan and implement age-appropriate activities and educational programs with the support of leadership
- Monitor and supervise children during playtime, meals, and throughout the school day
- Observe and assess children's development and behaviour
- Communicate with parents or guardians regarding their child's progress
- Maintain a clean and organised space
Learning and Development The candidate will receive extensive training in: - Makaton - PECS - SEND practice including for Speech, Language and Communication Needs - Trauma informed practice
- Attention BucketSkills and Qualifications:
- Minimum qualification: Certificate in Early Years Education or equivalent
- At least 2 years’ experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting
- Strong understanding of child development principles and early years curriculum frameworks (e.g., EYFS)
- Strong understanding of special educational needs particularly children who are pre-verbal
- Ability to plan and implement age-appropriate activities that encourage learning through play
- Excellent communication skills with both children and adults
- Patience, creativity, and enthusiasm for working with young learners with special educational needs
Values and Attitudes:
- A genuine passion for supporting children's growth and wellbeing- Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every child feels valued
- Reliability, professionalism, and a positive attitude towards teamwork
- Willingness to engage in continuous professional development
- Respectful approach towards families' diverse backgrounds
If you are passionate about making a difference during these formative years of specialist childhood education within a supportive specialist school community, we would love to hear from you. Please apply by submitting the attached application form along with a cover letter or supporting statement outlining your suitability for this role.