Join The Fountain Montessori Team in St Albans,

North London

Join The Fountain Montessori Team in St Albans,

North London

Looking for the next step in your childcare career? Here at Fountain Montessori, our team are extremely important to us and are part of our family!

If you're looking to work at a preschool that puts its team first and you love having fun, enjoying new surprises, and are always looking for your next adventure, then Fountain Montessori is the right place for you.

See Our Vacancies Below:

Early Years Practitioner

Early Years Practioners will work as a key person and as part of the preschool team under the direction of the Nursery Manager.

The ideal candidate will be able to provide safe, high-quality education and care for young children which meets the individual needs of children attending the setting.

We are looking for reliable individuals who have a calm and caring nature, with the ability to empathise with children under the age of 5. They will need to be able to work well as part of a team and under pressure, using their own initiative where necessary.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills will be required to interact with staff, children and parents, as well as write reports and keep clear and accurate records.

Duties:

- To assist with the planning of the curriculum using the Montessori & Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum for guidance.

- To help to set up the playroom(s) for the daily programme and to help tidy away at the end of the session.

- To act as a key person to a small group of children, liaising closely and building an effective relationship with parents/carers and ensuring each child's needs are recognised and met.

- To advise the Pre-school Manager of any concerns e.g. over children, parents or the safety of equipment, preserving confidentiality as necessary.

- To teach children, offering an appropriate level of support and stimulating play experiences.

- To ensure that children are kept safe, adequate records are updated regularly and that you understand when to follow child protection procedures.

- To support meal times within the setting.

- To actively participate in team meetings, supervisor meetings, appraisal meetings and training courses.

- To be aware of and adhere to all the setting’s operational policies and procedures, e.g. health and safety, fire precautions, dropping off and collection of children, food safety, cleanliness of the setting etc.

Required skills and experience:

✅Montessori Diploma or other Montessori Qualification

✅Level 3 Early Years Education and Childcare qualification or equivalent, and a commitment to obtaining a level 4 qualification is desirable.

✅Previous experience of working with young children.

✅Sound knowledge of child development for children from birth to five years.

✅Knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Montessori philosophy and practice.

✅Knowledge of child protection procedures.

✅Good communication and IT skills.

✅Ability to work in a team and value and respect the ethos of the nursery and Montessori philosophy of child-centred education.

✅An understanding of play-based approaches to children’s learning and development.

✅Commitment to equal opportunities.

✅Commitment to working effectively with young children and families and providing equal opportunities.

(This job description is not an exhaustive list of duties/required skills and the post holder will be required to undertake any other reasonable duties discussed and directed by the line manager).

Nursery Practitioner

The Nursery Practitioner will work as a key person and as part of the preschool team under the direction of the Room Leader and Nursery Manager. It is their duty to provide safe, high-quality education and care for young children, which meets the individual needs of children attending the setting.

The ideal candidate would have a calm and caring nature, with the ability to empathise with children under the age of 5. They will need to be able to work well as part of a team, as well as work well under pressure.

Duties:

- To assist with the planning of the curriculum using the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Montessori curriculum for guidance.

- To help to set up the playroom(s) for the daily programme and to help tidy away at the end of the session.

- To act as a key person to a small group of children, liaising closely and building an effective relationship with parents/carers and ensuring each child's needs are recognised and met.

- To advise the Room Leader/Nursery Manager of any concerns e.g. over children, parents or the safety of equipment, preserving confidentiality as necessary.

- To teach children, offering an appropriate level of support and stimulating play experiences.

- To ensure that children are kept safe, adequate records are updated regularly and that you understand when to follow child protection procedures.

- To actively participate in team meetings, supervisor meetings, appraisal meetings and training courses.

- To be aware of and adhere to all the setting’s operational policies and procedures, e.g. health and safety, fire precautions, dropping off and collection of children, food safety, cleanliness of the setting etc.

Required skills and experience:

✅ Level 2/3 Early Years Education and Childcare qualification or equivalent, and a commitment to obtaining a level 3/4/5 qualification.

✅ Montessori qualification or Diploma is desirable.

✅ Previous experience of working with young children.

✅ Sound knowledge of child development for children from birth to five years.

✅ Knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

✅ Knowledge of child protection procedures.

✅ Good communication and IT skills.

✅ Ability to work in a team and value and respect the ethos of the nursery and Montessori philosophy of a child-centred education.

✅ An understanding of play-based approaches to children’s learning and development.

✅ Commitment to equal opportunities.

(This job description is not an exhaustive list of duties/required skills and the post holder will be required to undertake any other reasonable duties discussed and directed by the line manager).

Apprentice

If you are looking to start a career in childcare, then look no further than Fountain Montessori. We are looking for enthusiastic and hard working individuals to complete their Apprenticeship at our fantastic setting.

The successful candidate will work alongside our dedicated team to provide the best childcare and education for children, whilst learning from qualified and experienced childcare professionals.

Duties:

- Assisting our team to meet the personal, social & emotional needs of our children.

- Attend all required out-of-working hours activities, for example, training sessions, team meetings, parent’s evenings & open days.

- Assisting in arranging activities and encouraging children to participate.

- Providing assistance to the children at mealtimes.

- Supporting staff with various duties throughout the day.

- Participate in the required training and courses as part of the apprenticeship programme.

- Assist in relaying information to parents about a child's day, development, and any concerns.

- To ensure that children are kept safe and that you understand when to follow child protection procedures in line with Fountain Montessori’s policies and procedures.

- To be aware of and adhere to all the setting’s operational policies and procedures, e.g. health and safety, fire precautions, dropping off and collection of children, food safety, cleanliness of the setting etc.

Required skills and experience:

✅ You must be able to gain a clear DBS.

✅ GCSE Grades A*-C or (or equivalent) are preferred (you may also be required to undertake English and Maths qualifications to further your childcare career). 

✅ Must be willing to learn and grow, completing your apprenticeship programme to the best of your ability.

✅ The ideal candidate will be a cheerful, motivated individual with a real passion for working with children. You must also be reliable, punctual, and a good team player.

(This job description is not an exhaustive list of duties/required skills and the post holder will be required to undertake any other reasonable duties discussed and directed by the line manager).

Please note that, as part of our recruitment process, you will be required to prove your right to work in the UK. You can learn more about this by clicking here.

About Fountain Montessori

At Fountain Montessori, we are a close-knit team that goes above and beyond to create a family feel in our authentic and accredited Montessori settings. Our facilities provide state-of-the-art security throughout, giving our parents complete peace of mind as to the safety of their precious children.

Our team is highly qualified in all aspects of childcare including NVQ Level 3 in Childcare up to Degree level. We continually invest in our team and provide opportunities to further their knowledge and development which maintains their motivation, commitment, and enjoyment. This could be through long-term qualification routes, short courses, or in-house training.

Top rated Nursery St Albans

Our MEAB accreditation and both “GOOD” and “OUTSTANDING” OFSTED ratings prove we’ve met vital benchmarks regarding overall quality.

Fountain Montessori Recruitment PDF

Get Our Recruitment PDF!

Learn more about our company values and why Fountain Montessori is the right place for you…

PLUS get a list of top 10 interview tips!

Our Mission, Vision, and Values

Here at Fountain Montessori, our Company Values are at the heart of everything we do. After all, you wouldn’t want to work somewhere that had different values and beliefs than you, would you? 

Our core values are deeply rooted in creating a nurturing and loving environment for children to thrive. We embody qualities of calmness, patience, encouragement, kindness, and love in our interactions with every child. We believe in the miraculous potential within each child and strive to make them feel cherished. 

We consider ourselves part of the extended "Fountain Family," where children aspire to be like us, and parents welcome us as an integral part of their lives. With smiles and reassuring words, we understand the uniqueness of each child's journey and know how to “polish diamonds from rough stones”. 

Our team is built on openness, honesty, reliability, and consistency, fostering stability through positive attitudes, honest communication, and collaborative problem-solving. We are dedicated to being knowledgeable Early Years and Montessori practitioners, continuously striving to deepen our understanding and improve our practices. 

Fountain Montessori Team Image Careers

Above all, our unwavering love for children drives our actions and decisions, which is more important than anything in this profession. Love is at the heart of everything we do, inspiring us to care for and nurture the children in our care with the utmost devotion and passion.

Our Mission, Vision, and Values

Here at Fountain Montessori, our Company Values are at the heart of everything we do. After all, you wouldn’t want to work somewhere that had different values and beliefs than you, would you? 

Our core values are deeply rooted in creating a nurturing and loving environment for children to thrive. We embody qualities of calmness, patience, encouragement, kindness, and love in our interactions with every child. We believe in the miraculous potential within each child and strive to make them feel cherished. 

We consider ourselves part of the extended "Fountain Family," where children aspire to be like us, and parents welcome us as an integral part of their lives. With smiles and reassuring words, we understand the uniqueness of each child's journey and know how to “polish diamonds from rough stones”. 

Our team is built on openness, honesty, reliability, and consistency, fostering stability through positive attitudes, honest communication, and collaborative problem-solving. We are dedicated to being knowledgeable Early Years and Montessori practitioners, continuously striving to deepen our understanding and improve our practices. 

Above all, our unwavering love for children drives our actions and decisions, which is more important than anything in this profession. Love is at the heart of everything we do, inspiring us to care for and nurture the children in our care with the utmost devotion and passion.

Benefits Of Working At Fountain Montessori!

Regular Team Training Days

Social Events

Free Parking

Discounts on Childcare

Bonus Schemes

Good Public Transport Links

Discounts on Childcare

Bonus Schemes

Career Progression

Never Work On Your Birthday

Staff Suggestion Schemes

Staff of the Month

Family Run Business

Competitive Salary

Career Progression

Never Work On Your Birthday

Staff Suggestion Schemes

Staff of the Month

Meet The Team

Top Rated Montessori Nursery St Albans

Arike Aiyetigbo - Founder

Originally from Nigeria, founder and director Arike Aiyetigbo created a Montessori school when she couldn’t find adequate, quality early child care for her daughter.

She’s incorporated feedback from families to deliver an experience customized to family needs.

Kashmira Kolah

Office Business Manager

"I joined Fountain Montessori in 2017, attracted by the prospect of being part of such a well respected establishment.


I am so proud to be a part of the team! I look after our new parents when they register and strive to provide our families with the highest level of childcare through consistent and thorough training of new and old staff.

We genuinely care about our families and the children's education and wellbeing. The company is very supportive and provides plenty of opportunities for personal growth as well as career development. Fountain Montessori is a great place to work and grow."

"I joined Fountain Montessori in 2017, attracted by the prospect of being part of such a well respected establishment.

I am so proud to be a part of the team!

I look after our new parents when they register and strive to provide our families with the highest level of childcare through consistent and thorough training of new and old staff.

We genuinely care about our families and the children's education and wellbeing. The company is very supportive and provides plenty of opportunities for personal growth as well as career development. Fountain Montessori is a great place to work and grow."

Shahnaz Vayani

Colindale Manager

"I am an Early Years Teacher with a BA (Hons) in Early Years and Education, and my role as Manager at Fountain Montessori Colindale began in August 2023.

My passion for Early Years has been around for more than 2 decades and started when I had my own children. It has grown over the years as I acquired my qualifications and gained experience working in the sector.

I am truly fascinated with how children learn and develop. It gives me immense pleasure in facilitating their learning journey and providing them with opportunities to build resilience and gain confidence in themselves.

Even though I am not an ardent music fan, I love singing with children at Circle Time!"

"I am an Early Years Teacher with a BA (Hons) in Early Years and Education, and my role as Manager at Fountain Montessori Colindale began in August 2023.

My passion for Early Years has been around for more than 2 decades and started when I had my own children. It has grown over the years as I acquired my qualifications and gained experience working in the sector.

I am truly fascinated with how children learn and develop. It gives me immense pleasure in facilitating their learning journey and providing them with opportunities to build resilience and gain confidence in themselves.

Even though I am not an ardent music fan, I love singing with children at Circle Time!"

Edgware Manager | Priscilla Chen-Chandler

"I joined Fountain in 2019. The first thing that attracted me to join the nursery was the professional knowledge and skill of the team presented.

I enjoyed working with the team and I am proud of being part of the team. It is a team that truly cares about children's wellbeing, education and development. 

The company always provides a lot of training courses and encourages the employees to take part. The company takes staff wellbeing as a priority. Employee's voice can be heard.

I like to work in Fountain Montessori as I have learnt a lot."

Priscilla Chen-Chandler | Edgware Manager

FAQ image

Nursery Manager | Julie

“The team is very welcoming and warm and the onboarding and induction programme is great, as you will be provided with a lot of courses and training for you to gain knowledge of what is expected from you in your role…It has been an amazing journey so far as I do feel appreciated and valued working for this company.”

Julie | Nursery Manager

FAQ image

Area Manager | Seble Feleke

“I started my journey at Fountain Montessori in August 2012, and my qualifications include Childcare Level 3, Montessori Level 2, and Leadership and Management Level 5.

I love working with the children because it makes me happy playing with them, as well as helping them learn, grow, and achieve their goals. I would say that my personal strength is my patience, even when challenging situations arise!”

Seble Feleke | Area Manager

FAQ image

Julie

Nursery Manager

“The team is very welcoming and warm and the onboarding and induction programme is great, as you will be provided with a lot of courses and training for you to gain knowledge of what is expected from you in your role…

It has been an amazing journey so far as I do feel appreciated and valued working for this company.”

Priscilla Chen-Chandler

Edgware Manager

“I joined Fountain in 2019, attracted by the nursery’s professional knowledge and expertise. I enjoy working with the team and I am proud to be part of the team.

They truly care about children's wellbeing, education and development. The company provides plenty of training courses and encourages the employees to take part.

Fountain Montessori prioritise staff wellbeing and values employees’ voices, making it an enriching experience for personal growth.”

Seble Feleke

Area Manager

“I started my journey at Fountain Montessori in August 2012, and my qualifications include Childcare Level 3, Montessori Level 2, and Leadership and Management Level 5.

I love working with the children because it makes me happy playing with them, as well as helping them learn, grow, and achieve their goals.

I would say that my personal strength is my patience, even when challenging situations arise!”

Hear What Our Parents Have To Say!

“We are so grateful to all teachers for the amazing job they're doing, our child is enjoying her time at the nursery and she is learning so many new things everyday. Thank you!”

“We are very happy with Fountain Montessori. The staff is exceptional and my daughter really enjoys going to nursery every morning. They do so many creative and fun activities with the children.”

“We are very happy with Fountain Montessori. The staff is exceptional and my daughter really enjoys going to nursery every morning. They do so many creative and fun activities with the children.”

“Best place for your child, they are all like a family!”

“Best place for your child, they are all like a family!”

Take A Tour Around Our Nursery!

Hear What Our Staff Have To Say!

“The training at Fountain has been amazing, we have many courses available to us which really help us with the Ofsted inspections. The progression here has been great, within 2 years I have gone from Nursery Assistant to Room Leader, now to 3rd in charge. Career progression is really valued.”

Andreea

Room Leader, 3rd in charge

Fountain Montessori is my second home, I've been here for 12 years! I like it for lots of reasons! I was accepted to do my work experience and was supported to develop my knowledge and experience to work with preschool children. Fountain Montessori is part of my social life too, here I met nice people, made friends and learnt from experienced colleagues. We are all role models for other staff and the children. It's a wonderful, professional team.

Sophia Jalba

Senior Montessori Practitioner

“ I am proud to say that I am working at Fountain Montessori. Management are supportive and approachable and always there to help. There is always opportunity for career progression which is very important. All the staff are friendly and Fountain Montessori has a positive vibe which I love! Most importantly, the children are happy here and becoming more independent and confident every day. ”

Usha Rawat

Deputy Manager

Fountain Montessori is my second home, I've been here for 12 years! I like it for lots of reasons! I was accepted to do my work experience and was supported to develop my knowledge and experience to work with preschool children. Fountain Montessori is part of my social life too, here I met nice people, made friends and learnt from experienced colleagues. We are all role models for other staff and the children. It's a wonderful, professional team.

Sophia Jalba

Senior Montessori Practitioner

“The training at Fountain has been amazing, we have many courses available to us which really help us with the Ofsted inspections. The progression here has been great, within 2 years I have gone from Nursery Assistant to Room Leader, now to 3rd in charge. Career progression is really valued.”

Andreea

Room Leader, 3rd in charge

Hear What Our Parents Have To Say!

If you’re interested in joining our team, follow the instructions below:

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We hire for ATTITUDE, not necessarily aptitude.  We will train you to excel in a childcare environment if you have the passion to do so!  So, even if you don’t meet all the requirements listed above, still consider applying if you’re a bright, motivated, loving, positive person who wants to be a part of a winning team and make a difference in the lives of children and families.

Safeguarding 

At Fountain Montessori, we are committed to child protection and safeguarding against harm. We promote the welfare of children and expect all staff members and volunteers to share this commitment as informed by robust policies and procedures. We are fully committed to ensuring that consistent effective safeguarding procedures are in place to support everyone at the school. Before the interview, all gaps in CVs must be explained satisfactorily and proof of identity and, where applicable, qualifications will be required. Appropriate suitability checks will be required prior to confirmation of employment. All concerns are passed to our Designated Safeguarding Lead. As this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required for the successful candidate.

St Albans Nursery

77 Holywell Hill, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1HF, United Kingdom