What Is It Like To Work As A Nursery Practitioner

Working in Early Years is more than just a job, it’s a calling filled with purpose, passion and the opportunity to make a lasting difference. At Fennies, our nursery practitioners are at the heart of everything we do, shaping the earliest experiences of each child’s life with care, creativity and compassion. But what is it really like to work in this role? We asked some of our incredible team members to share what inspires them, what their day-to-day looks like and why they love what they do.

Why Do You Love Working As A Nursery Practitioner?

"I love working in Early Years because no two days are ever the same! Each one brings something new, whether it's a new milestone, a creative adventure or a burst of unexpected laughter. It feeds my inner child and allows me to embrace my authentic, playful self. In this environment, being silly is celebrated. There's something truly special about being in a space where joy, curiosity and learning go hand in hand, and where you can be your true self without judgement."

Tanya, Room Leader and Third In Charge at Fennies Beckenham, Kings Hall Road

What Does It Mean To You To Work As A Nursery Practitioner?

"It means the world to me. Working with children is both refreshing and incredibly rewarding. Watching them grow, from bottle feeding to learning how to chew, from crawling to taking their first steps, is such a privilege. I love supporting their independence and being part of those key developmental moments. I treat each child as if they were my own, always creating space for them to grow and thrive. That care naturally builds strong bonds with the children, which then extends into meaningful relationships with their families too."

Nwanneka, Room Leader at Fennies Bromley, London Lane

What’s It Like Being A Nursery Practitioner In The UK?

“To be a Nursery Practitioner is to have a creative, open and resourceful mind to create opportunities for children to learn, as well as inspire and learn from your team. Passion is crucial when working with little lives, everything we do builds their future!” 

Stevie-Leigh, Deputy Room Leader at Fennies Wimbledon, Elm Grove

What Is The Day-To-Day Routine Of A Nursery Practitioner Like?

“My role is incredibly rewarding, not only do I help shape their learning journeys, but I also serve as a positive role model, building strong, trusting relationships with my key children and those around me. I personally work closely with children aged 6 to 24 months, supporting their growth and development across the three prime areas: communication and language, physical development and personal, social and emotional development.”

Nicole, Apprentice at Fennies Croydon, Lower Addiscombe Road

What Does A Nursery Practitioner Do Every Day?

“Working as a nursery practitioner is more than a job, it is a privilege. Every day, I help shape the earliest experiences of a child’s life, offering care, comfort and encouragement as they grow, learn and discover the world around them. It also means mastering the art of storytelling, snack negotiations and cleaning sand out of places you didn’t know existed. It’s fun, loud, messy and a little chaotic at times, but it is worth it because I get to see their little personalities shine. It’s very rewarding!”

Haja, Early Years Educator at Fennies Kidbrooke, Whittle Road

What Inspired You To Become A Nursery Practitioner?

"I first worked in a primary school, where in particular I helped run an after school club. Normally I would be teaching Year 5 students, but through this after school club, I got exposure to working with younger children and had an amazing time. I loved how intrigued and curious they were, being able to impart my knowledge onto them and inspire children to learn about the world around them truly resonated with me." 

Rupert, Deputy Room Leader at Fennies Beckenham, Langley Park

What Does A Typical Day Look Like For A Nursery Practitioner?

“Working as a practitioner is one of the most rewarding jobs! Knowing that you have the biggest impact for a child’s start to their journey is so fulfilling and rewarding! Watching them achieve their milestones, build their bonds and grow up into beautiful children reminds you why working in childcare is the best job you can have!”

Katherine, Room Leader at Fennies Oxted, Amy Road

What’s It Like Being An Early Years Educator?

“Working in Early Years has shaped who I am. Being part of a child’s first steps in the world, helping them feel safe, seen and celebrated is such a privilege. It’s a role full of purpose, connection and joy. I’d recommend it to anyone who’s passionate about supporting children during their most important years. It’s a career that stays with you, long after the day is done.”

Stephanie, Deputy Room Leader at Fennies Epsom, Hook Road

What Can You Expect When Working In A Nursery Setting?

“You can expect to get the opportunity to influence and shape young life’s minds on a daily basis, using the Birth to 5 years as a guideline. Each person can help children to develop in a different manner and prepare them for school and their life ahead. Being able to have a positive impact in aiding children with their needs and helping them achieve key milestones during their Early Years is what our job revolves around, and there’s nothing I’d rather do!" 

Martin, Room Leader at Fennies Croydon, Addiscombe Road

What Does Working In Early Years Mean To You?

“Working in Early Years is an inspirational journey, nurturing curiosity, inspiring growth, and shaping little lives with every moment.”

Emma, Room Leader at Fennies Croydon, Lower Addiscombe Road

Final Thoughts

From nurturing first steps to celebrating milestones, every nursery practitioner plays a vital role in supporting a child’s development and building strong, trusting relationships with families. As our team has shared, working in Early Years brings a unique mix of joy, challenge and deep reward. Whether you're considering a career in childcare or simply curious about the world behind the nursery doors, one thing is clear, the impact of an Early Years educator lasts a lifetime.