Early years, or nursery, teachers work in pre-school, nursery and reception classes with children aged between three and five. They are responsible for:

• Developing and implementing work schemes and lesson plans in line with the requirements of the foundation stage.
• Motivating children to learn and imaginatively using resources in order to facilitate learning.
• Develop the social and communication skills of the children as well providing a safe and secure environment in which the child can learn.
• Build and maintain relationships with parents/guardians to further support pupils as well as operate within multi-agency networks to ensure the correct support is available.
• Record observations and summarise the children's achievements. They focus on optimum child development and preparation for a successful transition to primary school education.