Careers at
Puddleducks Day Nursery
Who are we?
At Puddleducks, we are a family-run nursery where people matter. We believe that creating a happy, supportive environment for children starts with looking after the wellbeing of our team. We are passionate about building a warm and nurturing setting where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to thrive.
Wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do. We understand the importance of a positive work-life balance, supportive leadership, and strong relationships. Our team is encouraged to share ideas, develop professionally, and be part of a culture built on kindness, trust, and collaboration. We celebrate individuality and recognise the important role every member of staff plays in giving children the very best start in life.
Puddleducks is led by owner Kirsty, who brings more than 20 years of experience in the early years sector. Her passion for providing outstanding care and education is reflected in every aspect of the nursery and the supportive culture she has created. Despite overseeing multiple settings, Kirsty remains actively involved in each one and is committed to maintaining a personal approach. She takes the time to know every member of staff as an individual, recognising their strengths and supporting their professional development.
Kirsty believes in leading by example and regularly works alongside the team in the rooms. Having hands-on experience and a thorough understanding of the day-to-day role, she appreciates both the rewards and challenges of working in early years. Her approachable leadership style and genuine commitment to staff wellbeing help to create a strong sense of teamwork, where everyone feels heard, respected, and empowered.
Joining Puddleducks means becoming part of a close-knit family. We work in partnership with one another and with the families we support, creating a welcoming community where both children and practitioners can flourish. If you are passionate about early years and want to work in an environment where wellbeing, teamwork, and personal growth are genuinely valued, we would love to welcome you to the Puddleducks family.
Why work for us?
Our commitment goes beyond just benefits; we create an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and valued.
Together, we strive to foster a culture where our employees can flourish both personally and professionally.
Staff Benefits
Here are just a few we offer:
- Benefit from 30 days holiday starting from day one (pro-rated for part-time staff).
- Enjoy 50% off childcare costs when you bring your little ones with you, this discount starts from your very first day.
- Receive regular appreciations throughout the year, including Advent Calendars, Christmas Hampers, Easter Eggs, and summer gifts, along with frequent treats in the staff room.
- We celebrate every birthday with gifts for each team member because we believe every birthday is special, especially for our Puddleducks team!
- During the Christmas season, we are closed to give our staff the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones and celebrate as they wish.
- We celebrate a Team Member of the Month in which they receive a £50 bonus.
- We offer a loyalty bonus for continuous employment, after 3 years you will receive £300, after 5 years you will receive £500 and after 10 years you will receive £1000. We want to celebrate your journey with Puddleducks and thank you for all you have contributed.
- Receive an introduction bonus when staff introduce a new team member who successfully completes their probation.
- We prioritise staff wellbeing—mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing are all equally important. We provide access to trained mental health first aiders.
- We offer fully paid apprenticeships and Early Years Leadership training with a mentor to support you through the qualification.
- Engage in numerous professional development opportunities through both internal and external training, with a focus on your interests and goals.
- The opportunity to participate in social events and team-building activities throughout the year.
What Our Teams Says...
I have been at Puddleducks Amesbury since it first opened. The regular training days have enabled us to learn new skills and have given us confidence to put this into our practice. The management team are respectable, they are great at listening and really support us in progressing on a personal and professional level, offering us lots of opportunities to build on our knowledge and expand in our roles. Team work is a big part of Puddleducks ethos and as staff members we are encouraged to communicate, take on board ideas and recognise each other’s strengths. Seeing the children happy, confident and settled really makes me proud to say that I am part of the Puddleducks team.
Senior Early Years Practitioner
Amesbury
Working alongside the puddleducks team makes you feel genuinely valued as an employee. The care and consideration given to all team members goes above and beyond, which I think is what makes the relationships and morale between everyone so great!
No questions, queries or problems go unanswered, and people's opinions and suggestions are always welcomed with a positive attitude.
Early Years Practitioner
Amesbury