Ioana Gurau
Ioana Gurau
Delivery Consultant
Hi, I'm Ioana,
I specialise in connecting exceptional childcare professionals with nurseries and early years settings. What sets me apart is my candidate first approach. I take the time to understand not only your experience, but also your personality, career goals, and the type of environment where you'll truly thrive. By getting to know the person behind the CV, I'm able to make introductions that feel like the right fit for everyone involved.
I know that finding the right role is about more than qualifications and experience. It's about finding a setting where you feel supported, valued, and excited to grow. That's why I take the time to understand what you're really looking for, not just what's written on paper.
I'm known for being approachable, honest, and supportive throughout the entire process. From our first conversation through to securing the right role, you can expect regular communication, interview support, and someone who is genuinely invested in helping you find a position where you'll thrive both professionally and personally. For clients, I focus on building long term relationships and introducing candidates who not only have the right skills, but are the right fit for their team and culture.
I treat every job search like I'm helping a friend move house. I'm fully invested, slightly obsessed, and probably thinking about it more than you are.
Outside of work, I love travelling and exploring new places, spending time outdoors, and discovering great food spots.
Jobs by Ioana Gurau
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Nursery Practitioner
Bromley30100Level 3 Nursery Practitioner – Pre-School Room Salary: Up to £30,100 Hours: 40 per week We have an exciting opportunity for a passionate Level 3 Nursery Practitioner to join a welcoming nursery within its vibrant pre-school room. Rated Good by Ofsted, the nursery provides a nurturing and engaging environment where children are encouraged to grow in confidence, independence, and curiosity. The setting features thoughtfully designed age-specific rooms alongside a fantastic outdoor garden and dedicated outdoor learning area, creating plenty of opportunities for exploration and hands-on learning. This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic early years professional looking to be part of a supportive team within a high-quality nursery environment. What We’re Looking For Level 3 Early Years qualification – essential Experience working within an early years setting Good understanding of the EYFS framework A caring and nurturing approach to childcare Strong communication and teamwork skills Passion for supporting children’s learning, development, and school readiness What’s On Offer Up to £30,100 per annum Training and development opportunities Regular team events Annual leave increasing with service Health insurance Competitive pension scheme Key Responsibilities Providing high-quality care and education within the pre-school room Supporting the planning and delivery of engaging, play-based learning activities Creating a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for children Supporting children’s confidence, independence, and development Building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues Observing and monitoring children’s progress and development Ensuring safeguarding and health & safety standards are consistently maintained How to Apply If you are a passionate Level 3 Nursery Practitioner looking to join a supportive and engaging nursery setting, we would love to hear from you. Please apply with your up-to-date CV and a member of our team will be in touch. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and right-to-work verification. Reference: WILL243976/JG INDCHI -
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Room Leader
Orpington31000Level 3 Room Leader Up to £33,000 per annum Good Ofsted Rating | Leadership Opportunity | Excellent Benefits Package Are you ready to lead a room where children are encouraged to learn through play, build confidence, and flourish in a safe, nurturing environment? Our client is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Room Leader to join their Good Ofsted-rated nursery. Caring for children from three months through to pre-school age, the nursery provides exceptional early years education in a warm and welcoming setting where every child is supported to reach their full potential. Learning through play sits at the heart of the nursery's approach. Carefully planned activities, supported by an experienced and dedicated team, help children develop confidence, curiosity, and independence. Each room is equipped with high-quality resources that reflect the seven areas of learning within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), creating engaging opportunities for children to explore, discover, and thrive. This is an exciting opportunity to lead your own room, inspire your team, and play an important role in shaping children's early learning experiences. What We're Looking For Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification Previous experience as a Room Leader, Senior Nursery Practitioner, or in a similar leadership role Strong understanding of the EYFS framework and the seven areas of learning Excellent knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures Strong communication, leadership, and organisational skills Passion for delivering outstanding early years education What's On Offer Annual leave increasing with service Wellbeing programme Company pension scheme Ongoing training and development opportunities Team events throughout the year Staff incentives and recognition Opportunity to work in a Good Ofsted-rated nursery Excellent career progression opportunities Key Responsibilities Lead the day-to-day running of your designated room Deliver outstanding care and education in line with the EYFS framework Plan and oversee engaging, play-based learning experiences that support all areas of children's development Support, mentor, and inspire practitioners within your room Observe, assess, and monitor children's progress, ensuring individual learning needs are met Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues Maintain the highest standards of safeguarding, health & safety, and nursery practice Work closely with the management team to continually improve the quality of the provision All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements, including an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and verification of the right to work in the UK, in line with safeguarding responsibilities. Reference: WILL243578/IG INDCHI -
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Nursery Practitioner
Croydon28500Nursery Practitioner (Level 3) Up to £28,500 per annum | Full-Time, 40 hours per week, across 5 Days | Ofsted Rating – Good Join a nursery where the environment has been thoughtfully designed to give children the very best start in life. With beautifully designed rooms, a well-resourced outdoor garden, and free-flow access between indoor and outdoor learning spaces, you'll have everything you need to create engaging experiences that help children flourish. Holding a Good Ofsted rating, our client is looking for a caring and enthusiastic Level 3 Nursery Practitioner who is passionate about supporting children's learning, development, and wellbeing as part of a welcoming and supportive team. What's on Offer Up to £28,500 per annum Discounted childcare Company pension scheme On-site parking Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Team events Good Ofsted rated setting What Our Client Is Looking For Level 3 Early Years qualification or above – essential Previous experience working within a nursery or early years setting A good understanding of the EYFS framework and child development A caring, patient, and enthusiastic approach to supporting young children Strong communication skills and the ability to work well as part of a team Key Responsibilities Providing high-quality care and learning experiences for children within your room Planning and delivering engaging, age-appropriate activities in line with the EYFS framework Making the most of the nursery's free-flow access and outdoor garden to encourage exploration and learning Observing, assessing, and recording children's development, sharing progress with parents and carers Building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues Supporting the nursery team in maintaining a safe, stimulating, and welcoming environment where every child can thrive Why This Nursery? With free-flow access, dedicated age-specific rooms, and a fantastic outdoor learning environment, this nursery provides the perfect setting for practitioners who love creating memorable learning experiences. If you're looking to join a friendly team that genuinely values its staff and puts children at the heart of everything it does, this could be the ideal next step in your career. How to Apply If you hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification and are looking for your next Nursery Practitioner opportunity, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today with your up-to-date CV and a member of our team will be in touch for a confidential chat. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and right-to-work verification. Reference: WILL224400/IG INDCHI -
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Deputy Room Leader
Sevenoaks31000Deputy Room Leader Up to £31,000 per annum Ready to take the next step in your early years career? Our client is looking for a dedicated Deputy Room Leader to support the delivery of exceptional care and education within a nurturing nursery environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Nursery Practitioner or Senior Practitioner who is ready to develop their leadership skills while continuing to make a meaningful difference to children's early learning experiences. The nursery has been carefully designed around children's developmental needs, with dedicated spaces for different age groups and separate garden areas that encourage outdoor learning, exploration, and imaginative play. Working closely with the Room Leader, you'll help create a positive and inspiring environment for both children and colleagues while supporting the day-to-day running of the room. What We're Looking For Level 3 Early Years qualification Previous experience working within a nursery or early years setting Good understanding of the EYFS framework Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures Excellent communication and teamwork skills A nurturing and child-centred approach to childcare What's On Offer Up to £31,000 per annum Discounted childcare Pension scheme Staff incentives and recognition schemes Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Annual leave increasing with service Training and development opportunities Supportive leadership team Excellent career progression opportunities Key Responsibilities Support the Room Leader with the day-to-day running of the room Deliver high-quality care and education in line with the EYFS framework Help plan and implement engaging learning experiences Support and guide team members to maintain high standards of practice Monitor children's development through observations and assessments Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues Support indoor and outdoor learning experiences Step into leadership responsibilities when required Maintain safeguarding, health & safety, and nursery standards at all times All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements, including an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and verification of the right to work in the UK, in line with safeguarding responsibilities. Reference: WILL235616/DB INDCHI -
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Nursery Practitioner
Sevenoaks31000Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Up to £31,000 per annum | Full-Time | All-Year-Round An exciting opportunity has become available for a passionate Level 3 Nursery Practitioner to join a welcoming nursery where children are encouraged to learn, play, and grow in a nurturing and engaging environment. The nursery has been thoughtfully designed to support children at every stage of their development, with dedicated learning spaces tailored to different age groups. Children benefit from age-appropriate resources, stimulating activities, and separate garden areas that encourage outdoor exploration, physical development, and imaginative play. This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a supportive team that is committed to delivering exceptional early years education and helping every child reach their full potential. What We're Looking For Level 3 Early Years qualification Previous experience working within a nursery or early years setting Strong understanding of the EYFS framework Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures Excellent communication and teamwork skills A nurturing and child-centred approach to childcare What's On Offer Up to £31,000 per annum Discounted childcare Pension scheme Staff incentives and recognition schemes Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Annual leave increasing with service Supportive leadership team Training and development opportunities Excellent career progression prospects Key Responsibilities Deliver high-quality care and education in line with the EYFS framework Support children's learning, development, and wellbeing Plan and participate in engaging activities that reflect children's interests and developmental needs Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment Observe, assess, and monitor children's progress Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues Support children's emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development Make full use of the indoor and outdoor learning environments to enrich children's experiences Maintain safeguarding, health & safety, and nursery standards at all times All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements, including an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and verification of the right to work in the UK, in line with safeguarding responsibilities. Reference: WILL235618/DB INDCHI -
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Nursery Practitioner
Bromley30000Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Up to £30,000 Hours: 40 gours per week Ofsted Rating: Outstanding This Ofsted Outstanding nursery is a busy, warm, and wonderfully rewarding place to work. With dedicated rooms for each age group, a large garden where children explore whatever the season, and a nurturing ethos that puts every child and family at the centre, this is a setting where the Outstanding rating speaks for itself. They are now looking for a passionate Nursery Practitioner to join the team. Why This Role Is Worth Considering Work in a nursery rated Outstanding by Ofsted Training and development opportunities Competitive annual leave with increments for service Pension scheme and private healthcare insurance Regular team events and staff incentives What You’ll Need Level 3 childcare qualification Experience working in a nursery, ideally with toddlers Knowledge of safeguarding, hygiene, and early years standards Confidence in supporting children’s learning and development What You’ll Do Deliver high-quality care and learning experiences for toddlers Support children’s development through structured activities Maintain safety, safeguarding, and hygiene standards Work collaboratively with colleagues and the nursery team Assist with planning and observation in line with Ofsted requirements What Happens After You Apply Applications will be reviewed promptly. You’ll receive clear communication throughout the process, which is straightforward and professional. Reference: WILL241710/JG INDCHI -
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Deputy Room Leader
Bromley32000Deputy Room Leader - Baby Room Full-time · All year round · £28,000–£30,000 (depending on experience and qualifications). Our client is looking for a passionate and dedicated Deputy Room Leader (Level 3 qualified) to join their welcoming and professional early years team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to take the next step in their childcare career within a nurturing and inspiring setting. Located in a beautiful building filled with light and airy rooms, the nursery provides a true home-from-home environment where children feel safe, valued, and free to explore. The outdoor garden features a thoughtfully designed playground suitable for all ages, offering space for discovery and adventure every day. As Deputy Room Leader, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the room, working closely with the Room Leader and wider team to deliver high-quality care and learning opportunities. You’ll act as a role model, guide and mentor to others while actively contributing to a positive, inclusive and child-focused environment. What You’ll Need: A Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education (or equivalent) Previous experience working in a nursery or early years setting Strong understanding of child development and the EYFS framework A confident, kind, and proactive approach to supporting both children and team members A passion for creating joyful, inclusive experiences for all children Why Work Here? This is a setting that truly values its people and promotes a strong sense of team and community. Alongside a supportive working environment, staff benefit from: Annual leave that increases with length of service Wellness support and access to a wellbeing programme Regular team events to foster connection and celebrate success Ongoing training and career progression opportunities Company pension scheme Key Responsibilities: Support the Room Leader in planning, organising, and delivering stimulating activities based on children’s interests and developmental needs Take initiative in creating a safe, caring, and enriching space for children Build strong, trusting relationships with children, families, and team members Supervise and support practitioners, offering guidance and feedback when needed Ensure the room operates in line with EYFS standards, safeguarding policies, and nursery procedures Step into the Room Leader role when required Reference: WILL235516/IG INDCHI -
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Nursery Practitioner
South Croydon32500Level 3 Nursery Practitioner – Up to £32,500 – Croydon Based in a well-established nursery in Croydon, this setting combines a family-run feel with a structured approach to early years education. The nursery focuses on creating environments where children are settled, engaged, and supported through consistent daily practice. As a Level 3 Nursery Practitioner, you’ll be part of a team that values steady routines, clear expectations, and quality delivery. Before You Apply This role requires recent experience working in a nursery or early years setting. A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification is essential. Applicants must be confident managing children’s day-to-day care and learning independently. Key Job Details Salary: Up to £32,500, based on experience Hours: Full-time, all year round Contract: Permanent Setting: Early Years Nursery (ages 0–5) Location: South Croydon Why This Role Is Worth Considering Established nursery group with consistent standards and structure Clear approach to EYFS, safeguarding, and daily practice Ongoing training and CPD opportunities Heavily discounted childcare and increasing annual leave with service Wellbeing support and regular salary reviews Refreshments provided while on shift What You’ll Need Level 3 Early Years qualification (full and relevant) Experience working in a nursery or early years setting Good understanding of EYFS and safeguarding responsibilities Ability to support children’s development and daily routines confidently Clear communication and teamwork skills What You’ll Do Deliver care and education in line with EYFS requirements Support children’s development through planned and free-play activities Complete observations and contribute to planning and next steps Maintain a safe, clean, and organised environment Build professional relationships with parents and carers Work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain consistent standards Safer recruitment checks will apply, including references and an enhanced DBS check. Reference: WILL233753/IG INDCHI -
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Room Leader
Sydenham32000Room Leader - £30,000–£32,000 Our client’s nursery is vibrant and engaging where each day is shaped by curiosity, creativity, and play. With dedicated age-specific rooms, a soft play area, and a large outdoor garden featuring a playground and digging space, the environment is designed to keep children active, exploring, and fully involved in their learning. Before You Apply This role requires a full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification. You must have recent experience leading or supervising within a nursery room. Key Job Details Salary: £30,000–£32,000 per year Hours: 40 hours per week, full-time Contract: Permanent Ofsted Rating: Good Why This Role Is Worth Considering Large outdoor garden with playground, digging area, and open space for play Soft play area for year-round activity and movement Discounted childcare and pension scheme Free DBS check and uniform provided Annual leave increases with service Staff incentives, team events, and Christmas party What You’ll Need Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent) Experience working within a nursery setting Experience leading a room or supporting a team Solid understanding of EYFS and safeguarding What You’ll Do Lead the day-to-day running of a nursery room Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities Guide and support room staff in daily practice Track children’s development and keep records up to date Maintain safeguarding, health and safety, and EYFS standards Build strong relationships with parents and carers What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed based on relevant Early Years experience and qualifications. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview and nursery visit. Reference: WILL217559/IG INDCHI -
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Nursery Practitioner
Orpington30000Level 3 Nursery Practitioner – Up to £30,000 Children thrive when they're given the right environment to explore, learn, and develop confidence in their own abilities. Our client's nursery has been carefully designed to support every stage of a child's early years journey, with dedicated rooms tailored to different age groups and a strong focus on learning through play. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate Level 3 Nursery Practitioner to join a supportive team committed to delivering high-quality childcare and early years education. You'll play an important role in helping children feel safe, engaged, and inspired while supporting their development through meaningful learning experiences. Before You Apply • This role requires a full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification. • Applicants must have recent experience working in a nursery setting. • This position is not suitable for candidates without the required qualification. Key Job Details • Salary: Up to £30,000 per year depending on experience • Full-time, permanent contract • Sector: Early years education and childcare • Location: Bromley • Ofsted rating: Good Why This Role Is Worth Considering • Dedicated rooms for babies, toddlers, and pre-school age groups • Practice aligned with the EYFS seven areas of learning • Clear daily routines and shared planning responsibilities • Company pension scheme • Wellbeing support and ongoing training • Team events and monthly incentive schemes What You’ll Need • Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification • Experience working as a Nursery Practitioner in an early years setting • Strong understanding of EYFS and safeguarding requirements • Confidence managing key children and daily routines What You’ll Do • Plan and deliver EYFS-based activities within your room • Support children’s development through observation and assessment • Maintain accurate learning records and contribute to progress reviews • Follow safeguarding and health and safety procedures • Build consistent relationships with parents and carers • Work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain room standards What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed against the essential criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to arrange an interview and nursery visit. Reference: WILL199686/IG INDCHI -
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Nursery Practitioner
Bromley31000Nursery Practitioner (Level 3) – Up to £31,000 – Permanent The nursery is set within a beautiful Grade II listed building, designed to feel calm, familiar, and welcoming for children. Practice is guided by play-based learning, with time and space to support children’s development thoughtfully throughout the day. The role offers stability, clear routines, and the chance to focus on quality interactions rather than constant transitions. Before You Apply This role requires a Level 3 Early Years qualification. Applicants must have recent experience working in an early years setting. This position is not suitable for candidates without the required qualification. Key Job Details Salary: Up to £31,000 per year, dependent on experience Sector: Early years education and childcare Ofsted rating: Good Why This Role Is Worth Considering Calm, well-designed environment within a Grade II listed building Consistent routines and structured daily practice Opportunity to work with an experienced early years team Benefits include company pension, wellbeing support, and funded training Additional team events and monthly incentive schemes What You’ll Need Level 3 Early Years qualification Recent experience in a nursery or early years setting Good understanding of safeguarding and child development Ability to work confidently within a structured daily routine What You’ll Do Support children’s learning and development through play-based activities Maintain a safe, nurturing, and well-organised environment Observe, record, and contribute to children’s developmental progress Work closely with colleagues to maintain consistent standards of care Build positive relationships with children and their families What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed promptly. You will receive clear communication throughout the process. Next steps are straightforward and professional. Reference: WILL199620/IG INDCHI -
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Nursery Practitioner
Royal Tunbridge Wells32000Nursery Practitioner (Level 3) – Tunbridge Wells – Up to £32,000 This nursery sits at the heart of Tunbridge Wells and provides full-day care for children from 3 months to 5 years. Practice here is unhurried and consistent, with a strong focus on secure attachments, outdoor play, and calm routines. Before You Apply A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification is required. Recent experience working as a Nursery Practitioner is essential. This role is not suitable for candidates without hands-on nursery experience. Key Job Details Salary: Up to £32,000 per year Setting: Day nursery for children aged 3 months to 5 years Location: Tunbridge Wells Ofsted: Good Why This Role Is Worth Considering A genuinely well-resourced nursery with bright rooms and carefully designed play spaces Extensive outdoor provision, including separate outdoor areas for babies and older children An established staff team with low turnover and clear leadership Child-centred practice that prioritises care, nurture, and emotional security Company pension, ongoing training, wellbeing support, and regular team activities What You’ll Need Level 3 Early Years qualification (full and relevant) Proven experience working as a Nursery Practitioner in a similar setting Practical knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and day-to-day nursery routines Confidence working independently while contributing to a wider team What You’ll Do Act as a key person, building secure and consistent relationships with children and families Support children’s learning and development through daily play, routines, and outdoor experiences Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health, and safety Work closely with colleagues to ensure smooth transitions and predictable daily structure Contribute to a calm, welcoming environment that feels familiar and reassuring to children What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed promptly. Shortlisted candidates are contacted directly with clear next steps. Reference: WILL141247/DB INDCHI