Join our team
Level 3 childcare practitioner jobs in Crewe
We're recruiting warm, qualified practitioners to help us keep every child safe, happy and healthy at our two Crewe settings.
Why join Smart Start?
Smart Start began in 2012 as a childminder on Stewart Street and has grown into two close-knit settings in Crewe. Our team is small enough that everyone is known and valued, and big enough to offer real career progression.
We believe the best childcare comes from happy, well-supported staff. If you share our Safe, Happy, Healthy values, we'd love to hear from you.
What we offer
A supportive workplace where your skills are valued and your development is invested in.
A family feel
Small groups, supportive colleagues and a genuine open-door culture where your wellbeing matters as much as the children's.
Small ratios
Work in close-knit teams where you really get to know every child and can deliver thoughtful, responsive care.
Career development
Ongoing training, mentoring and the chance to grow with us as we continue to expand across Crewe.
Flexible settings
Choose the setting that suits your life: term-time preschool hours at Underwood Lane or year-round cover at Stewart Street.
The role
We are looking for Level 3 qualified childcare practitioners to join either our Stewart Street or Underwood Lane setting. You will be a key person, planning activities, observing development and building strong relationships with children and families.
What you'll do
- Plan and deliver engaging, play-based activities linked to the EYFS
- Build secure attachments with key children and support their individual development
- Work closely with parents and carers, sharing progress and next steps
- Maintain accurate observations, assessments and records
- Support children's personal care, including mealtimes, nappy changing and rest periods
- Contribute to a safe, happy and healthy environment every day
What we're looking for
You don't need to be perfect — you need to be kind, reliable and genuinely passionate about early years. In return, we'll give you the support, training and respect you deserve.
- Level 3 qualification in childcare or early years (essential)
- Experience working with children aged 0 to 4 in a nursery or childminding setting
- Sound knowledge of the EYFS and child development
- Strong safeguarding awareness and a willingness to follow our policies
- A warm, professional approach with children, parents and colleagues
- Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to obtain one)
- First aid and safeguarding training desirable, but training can be arranged
Where you'd work
Both settings share the same values and team culture. Choose the one that fits your availability and preferred age group.
Underwood Lane
1 Underwood Lane, Crewe, Cheshire East, CW1 3JX
Ages: 2 – 4 years
Hours: Monday – Thursday 8.00am – 4.00pm, Friday 8.00am – 3.00pm
Pattern: Term time only (38 weeks per year)
Stewart Street
113 Stewart Street, Crewe, Cheshire East, CW2 8LY
Ages: 0 – 4 years
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7.30am – 6.00pm
Pattern: 48 weeks per year
How to apply
Send your CV and a short cover letter telling us which setting interests you and why you'd be a great fit. We'll reply within a few working days to arrange an informal chat.
Or call 01270 421451 to talk through the role before applying.
Apply online
Leave your details below and we'll get back to you to arrange an informal chat.
Smart Start Nursery and Childminding is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.