Working in early years can be incredibly rewarding, but it's also demanding. Most nursery practitioners don't start looking for a new role because they want change for the sake of it - they start looking because something no longer feels right.
If you've been wondering whether it's time to move on, here are some common signs that it might be worth exploring new opportunities.
Everyone has difficult days, but if you regularly feel drained before your shift has even started, it could be a sign that your current role isn't the right fit anymore.
The right nursery should support your wellbeing, celebrate your achievements, and give you opportunities to grow.
2. There's No Opportunity to Progress
Whether you're a Level 2 Practitioner looking to become Level 3, or a Room Leader hoping to step into management, career development matters.
If you've been asking about progression for months with no clear pathway, it may be time to find an employer that invests in its team.
Look for nurseries that offer:
Funded training
Leadership opportunities
Regular supervision and development reviews
Internal promotions
3. You're Constantly Short Staffed
Occasionally covering for colleagues is part of working in childcare.
However, if your nursery is consistently understaffed, it can affect:
Children's experiences
Staff wellbeing
Work-life balance
Job satisfaction
4. You're Not Feeling Valued
Feeling appreciated goes beyond salary.
Good employers recognise hard work through:
Saying thank you
Providing constructive feedback
Offering training opportunities
Celebrating achievements
Listening to staff ideas
Feeling respected and supported can make a huge difference to your working day.
5. Your Work-Life Balance Has Disappeared
Working late every evening, covering extra shifts, or constantly thinking about work outside your contracted hours can eventually lead to burnout.
A healthy workplace encourages its team to switch off and enjoy life outside work.
6. The Nursery No Longer Matches Your Values
Perhaps you'd like to work somewhere with:
Better outdoor learning opportunities
A Montessori approach
Forest School sessions
Smaller group sizes
A stronger focus on staff wellbeing
Finding a nursery whose values align with your own can make your work feel even more rewarding.
7. You're Staying Because It's Comfortable
Many people stay in the same job simply because it's familiar.
But staying somewhere that no longer challenges or supports you could mean missing out on:
Better pay
Improved benefits
Career progression
A more positive team culture
Sometimes the best career move starts with simply seeing what's available.
Finding the Right Nursery Matters
Not every nursery is the same.
Some focus on professional development. Others pride themselves on creating a close-knit, family feel. Many now offer enhanced benefits, wellbeing initiatives, bonuses, or flexible working options.
The important thing is finding a workplace where you can thrive—not just get through the day.
Looking for Your Next Nursery Role?
At Willing Care Recruitment, we work with nurseries across the UK to match early years professionals with roles that suit their experience, career goals, and values.
Whether you're looking for your first nursery role or your next management opportunity, we're here to help.
Take a look at our latest Early Years vacancies or get in touch with our team for a confidential chat about your next move.
