Early Years Teacher Trainee

Graduate Early Years Teacher Trainee

Locations: All Puffins Nurseries in Exeter, Devon UK
Start your career in Early Years and train to become an Early Years Teacher (EYT)

Our Values: Kind • Communicative • Child-Centred

Join a team where kindness shapes every interaction, communication builds strong partnerships, and children are at the heart of everything we do.

Launch Your Career with Puffins Childcare

Are you a graduate looking for a meaningful, rewarding career where you can make a real impact?

At Puffins Childcare, we offer a structured pathway for graduates to begin their journey in Early Years, using your degree as a springboard towards gaining Early Years Teacher (EYT) Status.

Whether your degree is in education, psychology, or another relevant field, this role is designed to give you the hands-on experience, support, and development you need to grow into an outstanding Early Years professional.

We are a nurturing, forward-thinking childcare provider open 51 weeks a year (closed over Christmas), passionate about creating inspiring environments where children – and practitioners – thrive.

About the Role

As a Graduate Early Years Teacher Trainee, you will:

• Work with children aged 4 months to 5 years, supporting their learning and development
• Gain practical experience aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• Be supported on a clear progression pathway towards Early Years Teacher (EYT)
• Develop key skills in teaching, observation, and child development

You’ll play a vital role in shaping young children’s early experiences, while building the foundations for your future career in teaching.

What You’ll Be Doing

Child-Centred Practice

Create a safe, engaging, and inspiring learning environment

Build strong, nurturing relationships with children

Support each child’s individual development and curiosity

Communication & Relationships

Work closely with families, sharing updates and supporting children’s progress

Collaborate with colleagues to create a positive, supportive team culture

Learning & Development

Deliver play-based learning experiences in line with the EYFS

Observe and track children’s progress and development

Learn how to plan and lead activities as your confidence grows

Professional Growth

Take part in structured training and mentoring

Develop the skills needed to progress towards Early Years Teacher Status (EYT)

 What We’re Looking For

We are seeking graduates who are enthusiastic, caring, and eager to build a career in Early Years.

Essential Requirements:

A degree (any subject, though relevant subjects are advantageous)

GCSEs in English, Maths, and a Science (Grade 4/C or above)

A genuine passion for working with young children

Strong communication and teamwork skills

A positive, proactive attitude and willingness to learn

Desirable (but not essential):

Experience working with children (e.g. volunteering, placements, babysitting)

An interest in pursuing Early Years Teacher Status (EYT)

We will support you in gaining any additional qualifications required.

 Why Join Puffins?

We recognise your potential and invest in your future.

Career Development

Clear pathway to Early Years Teacher Status (EYT)

Progression opportunities to Room Leader, Deputy Manager, and Centre Manager

Training, mentoring, and ongoing professional development

Benefits

Free uniform & DBS

Employee Assistance Programme (for you and your family)Financial support options (pay advances & travel loans)

Cycle to Work scheme & discounted gym membership

Staff suggestion scheme with rewards

Time Off & Wellbeing

28 days holiday (rising to 33)

Birthday Day Off

Self-Care Day

Paid bereavement leave

Additional holiday after 4 years

Extras

• Pension scheme, Staff discounts (shopping, travel, food & more), 50% childcare discount, Long service awards, Team events and social gatherings

Apply Now

If you’re ready to begin a rewarding career in Early Years and take your first step towards becoming an Early Years Teacher, we’d love to hear from you.

Our Commitment

Puffins Childcare is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.

We are also dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment.