Jake Clarke
Jake Clarke
Recruitment Consultant
Hi I'm Jake, I’m a people first recruiter who genuinely cares about supporting candidates through what can be a major career move. I’m professional, approachable, and very hands on in how I work, taking the time to understand the person behind the CV and what they’re really looking for.
I focus on clear communication, honesty, and making the process as smooth and stress free as possible. I keep candidates updated at every stage, make sure they feel supported and prepared, and I don’t disappear once things get busy. I also bring a good sense of humour into my work, which helps put people at ease and makes the experience far more human.
One candidate I placed summed it up perfectly:
“I had the pleasure of working with Jake from Willing Care Recruitment and I can honestly say he’s one of the best recruiters I’ve ever dealt with. From start to finish, Jake was professional, approachable and genuinely invested in finding the right opportunity for me. He has a great sense of humour, which made the whole process enjoyable and stress free, but what really stands out is how he goes above and beyond for his clients. Jake kept me updated every step of the way and made sure I felt supported and prepared throughout the process.”
Anonymous, candidate placed via Willing Care Recruitment
"I’m basically the friend who hypes you up, fixes your CV, and still reminds you to drink water before the interview."
Outside of work, I enjoy good food, discovering new music, and keeping fit at the gym.
If you’re ready to make a move, apply now or search for the right role and let’s get you sorted.
Jobs by Jake Clarke
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Nursery practitioner
Cricklewood29000Nursery Practitioner – Level 3 | £27,000–£29,000 | 45 Hours per week + Paid Breaks Daily life in a nursery moves quickly, but the work itself is simple at its core: creating a calm, engaging environment where young children feel safe to explore, learn, and develop. As a Level 3 Nursery Practitioner you will work closely with colleagues to deliver high quality care and thoughtful EYFS practice across the nursery. Before You Apply • This role requires recent experience working in a nursery or early years setting. • Applicants must hold a full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification. • Candidates should be confident supporting children’s development and maintaining EYFS observations and records. Key Job Details • Salary: £27,000 – £29,000 depending on experience • Hours: 45 hours per week with paid breaks • Contract: Permanent, full time • Working pattern: 46 working weeks per year • Setting: Private Early Years nursery Why This Role Is Worth Considering • Paid breaks and a reduced working year (46 weeks rather than 52) • Structured nursery with established planning and assessment systems • Clear expectations around safeguarding, care standards, and EYFS delivery • Ongoing training and development opportunities • Stable staffing structure within a well-established nursery setting What You’ll Need • Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification • Previous experience working in a nursery or early years childcare setting • Strong working knowledge of the EYFS framework • Paediatric First Aid certification • Safeguarding training and understanding of child protection procedures • Confidence completing observations, learning journeys, and developmental assessments What You’ll Do • Provide day-to-day care and supervision for children within the nursery • Support EYFS-based learning activities that encourage development and curiosity • Complete observations, assessments, and records for key children • Work closely with colleagues to maintain safe, organised learning spaces • Build positive relationships with parents and carers, sharing updates on children’s development • Follow safeguarding, health and safety, and nursery policies at all times What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed against the essential qualification and experience requirements. Suitable candidates will be contacted to arrange an initial conversation before progressing to interview with the nursery management team. Reference: WILL215741/JC INDACC -
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Room Leader
Cricklewood31000Nursery Room Leader/Third in Charge – Level 3 | £29,000–£31,000 Leading a Baby Room means setting the tone for a child’s very first experiences in nursery. As a Level 3 Nursery Room Leader you will guide a small team while supporting the wider nursery leadership; You’ll also be supporting the Nursery Manager and Deputy with the day-to-day operations of the nursery. The focus is simple: consistent care, thoughtful EYFS practice, and a calm, well-organised room for babies to grow and explore. Before You Apply This role requires recent experience leading or supervising within a nursery Baby Room or similar early years environment. Applicants must hold a full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification. Candidates should be confident leading a room, guiding staff practice, and managing EYFS documentation. Key Job Details Salary: £29,000 – £31,000 depending on experience Hours: 45 hours per week with paid breaks Contract: Permanent, full time Working pattern: 46 working weeks per year Setting: Private Early Years nursery Age group: Baby Room Why This Role Is Worth Considering Clear room leadership responsibility with input into wider nursery operations Paid breaks and a reduced working year (46 weeks rather than 52) Structured nursery with established systems for planning and assessment Ongoing training and development within early years leadership Opportunity to step into a Third in Charge position supporting senior management Stable staffing structure within a well-established nursery setting What You’ll Need Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification Previous experience as a Nursery Room Leader, Baby Room Leader, or senior practitioner Strong working knowledge of the EYFS framework Paediatric First Aid certification Safeguarding training and understanding of child protection procedures Experience leading staff practice and maintaining accurate EYFS records Desirable Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training Food Hygiene Level 2 FGM awareness training SEND or inclusion experience Experience supporting Ofsted preparation or inspections What You’ll Do Lead the daily running of the Baby Room, ensuring safe, consistent care for children Plan and oversee EYFS-based activities supporting early development Monitor observations, assessments, and developmental records for key children Guide and support Early Years Practitioners through supervision and mentoring Work with parents and carers to share updates on children’s development and wellbeing Support nursery leadership with staffing organisation, compliance, and safeguarding standards What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed against the essential experience and qualification requirements. Suitable candidates will be contacted to arrange an initial conversation before progressing to interview with the nursery management team. Reference: WILL215708/JC INDACC -
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Nursery Practitioner
Peckham29900Nursery Practitioner – Level 3 Salary: Up to £29,900, depending on experience Full-Time Hours Our client is on the lookout for a dedicated Level 3 Nursery Practitioner to join their exceptional team. This light and spacious nursery offers a nurturing environment for children from birth to 5 years old. With separate rooms for different age groups and a beautiful large garden, the nursery provides a stimulating and enriching setting for children. Qualifications and Experience: Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education or equivalent. Previous experience in a nursery or early years setting is preferred. Strong communication skills, with a passion for working with young children and supporting their growth. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and contribute to a positive nursery culture. Perks, Benefits & Reasons to Join Competitive annual leave, with the option to buy or sell days. An extra day off for your birthday—celebrate it properly! Long service awards to recognise your commitment. Heavily discounted childcare, supporting you and your family. Ofsted bonus scheme when the setting achieves top results. Competitive pension scheme for long-term security. Key Responsibilities: Deliver high-quality care and education to children, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times. Plan and implement engaging activities that promote learning and development across various areas, including construction, science experiments, small world play, yoga, and gardening. Support children in their play and learning, fostering their curiosity and creativity in a nurturing environment. Collaborate with the nursery team to maintain a positive atmosphere and contribute to a cohesive and supportive working environment. Observe and assess children's progress, keeping accurate records and working closely with parents to share updates on their child's development. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate nursery practitioner to join a vibrant team dedicated to providing exceptional care and education. If you are ready to inspire young learners and be a part of a nurturing environment, we encourage you to apply! Reference: WILL215277/JC INDACC -
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Deputy Nursery Manager
Amersham33000Deputy Nursery Manager - £33,000 Based in Amersham, this nursery offers carefully refurbished indoor spaces designed to spark curiosity, alongside fully equipped outdoor areas with mud kitchens and climbing frames. Learning through play is central to daily practice, with authentic, natural resources used to encourage exploration and independence. As Deputy Nursery Manager, you’ll help lead this environment - supporting practitioners and ensuring children receive consistent, high-quality early years education and care. Before You Apply You must hold a full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification. Recent senior experience within a nursery setting is essential. This role requires confidence leading staff and supporting operational management. Key Job Details Salary up to £33,000 per annum 40 hours per week Full-time, permanent contract Early Years Nursery setting Leadership role supporting EYFS delivery and nursery compliance What You’ll Need Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification Senior experience within a nursery or early years setting Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted expectations Experience supervising or mentoring staff Confidence managing ratios, rotas and day-to-day operations Why This Role Is Worth Considering Clear progression within early years leadership Blend of management and time in rooms Fully equipped outdoor spaces including mud kitchens and climbing frames Heavily discounted childcare Enhanced parental leave Day off for your birthday Pension scheme Ongoing training and development Health and wellbeing support What You’ll Do Support the Nursery Manager with daily operations and staffing Lead room leaders and practitioners to maintain high-quality EYFS practice Monitor planning, observations and assessment standards Ensure safeguarding, health and safety, and compliance requirements are met Build strong relationships with parents and external professionals Step into full managerial responsibility in the Manager’s absence What Happens After You Apply Applications will be reviewed against the essential criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview. Reference: WILL209692/JC INDACC -
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Nursery Room leader
South Croydon31616Nursery Room Leader (Level 3) – Toddler Room - £15.20 Per Hour This nursery is a well-established early years setting rated Good by Ofsted, with age specific rooms and a large and magical garden used daily by children. You will be based in the toddler room, with responsibility for maintaining routines, supporting staff, and ensuring high-quality practice through play and the EYFS. Before You Apply A Level 3 Early Years qualification is essential. Applicants must be confident managing routines, supporting staff, and maintaining EYFS standards. Key Job Details Job Title: Nursery Room Leader (Level 3) – Early Years Pay: £15.20 per hour Hours: 40 hours per week, worked over 4 days Contract: Permanent, full-time Ofsted Rating: Good Room: Toddler Why This Role Is Worth Considering Age-specific room with clear structure and expectations Large, engaging garden used as part of daily learning Consistent routines and established practice across the nursery Four-day working week providing better work–life balance Stable setting with a positive inspection history What You’ll Need Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent) Recent experience as a Room Leader or Senior Practitioner Strong working knowledge of the EYFS Confidence leading staff and managing daily routines Calm, consistent approach to early years practice What You’ll Do Lead the day-to-day running of your room Plan and support learning through play in line with the EYFS Guide and support practitioners within the room team Monitor children’s progress and support developmental outcomes Build professional relationships with parents and carers Maintain safeguarding, health and safety, and quality standards What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed promptly. Suitable candidates will be contacted to discuss the role and next steps. Interviews are professional, clear, and focused on experience and expectations. Reference: WILL213923/JC INDACC -
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Senior Nursery Practitioner
Amersham33000Senior Nursery Practitioner - £33,000–£34,000 A well-established Early Years nursery in Amersham is looking for an experienced Senior Nursery Practitioner to join one of their wonderful rooms. This is a hands-on leadership role within a quality-focused setting where standards, safeguarding, and child development are at the forefront. You’ll help lead a small team, oversee daily practice, and remain actively involved in delivering high-quality early education. Before You Apply This role requires a full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification. You must have recent experience working in a nursery with responsibility for practice and staff support. This position is not suitable for candidates without UK nursery experience. Key Job Details Salary: £33,000–£34,000 per annum Full-time, permanent contract 40 hours per week across 5 days Early Years nursery setting Location: Amersham Why This Role Is Worth Considering Established systems for planning, observations, and compliance Annual leave increasing with length of service Discounted childcare Pension scheme Ongoing training and professional development What You’ll Need Full and relevant Level 3 qualification in Early Years Proven experience in a nursery setting, ideally as a senior practitioner Strong working knowledge of the EYFS framework Confidence leading a small team and maintaining standards Clear understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures What You’ll Do Assist with the day-to-day running of your designated nursery room Plan and oversee activities in line with the EYFS framework Monitor children’s progress and maintain accurate learning records Supervise and guide Early Years Practitioners and support staff Ensure safeguarding, health and safety standards are consistently met Communicate clearly with parents regarding development and wellbeing What Happens After You Apply Applications will be reviewed against the essential criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to arrange an interview. Reference: WILL211820/JC INDACC -
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Nursery Room leader
South Croydon31616Nursery Room Leader (Level 3) – Early Years - £15.20 Per Hour This nursery is a well-established early years setting rated Good by Ofsted, with age specific rooms and a large and magical garden used daily by children. The Room Leader role is based within an age-specific room, with responsibility for maintaining consistent routines, supporting staff, and ensuring high-quality practice through play and the EYFS. The position offers stable hours across four days per week and a clear hourly rate. Before You Apply A Level 3 Early Years qualification is essential. Applicants must be confident managing routines, supporting staff, and maintaining EYFS standards. Key Job Details Job Title: Nursery Room Leader (Level 3) – Early Years Pay: £15.20 per hour Hours: 40 hours per week, worked over 4 days Contract: Permanent, full-time Ofsted Rating: Good Why This Role Is Worth Considering Age-specific room with clear structure and expectations Large, engaging garden used as part of daily learning Consistent routines and established practice across the nursery Four-day working week providing better work–life balance Stable setting with a positive inspection history What You’ll Need Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent) Recent experience as a Room Leader or Senior Practitioner Strong working knowledge of the EYFS Confidence leading staff and managing daily routines Calm, consistent approach to early years practice What You’ll Do Lead the day-to-day running of your room Plan and support learning through play in line with the EYFS Guide and support practitioners within the room team Monitor children’s progress and support developmental outcomes Build professional relationships with parents and carers Maintain safeguarding, health and safety, and quality standards What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed promptly. Suitable candidates will be contacted to discuss the role and next steps. Interviews are professional, clear, and focused on experience and expectations. Reference: WILL201468/JC INDACC -
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Senior Nursery Practitioner
Beddington31720Senior Nursery Practitioner – £15 per hour – Permanent This nursery provides care for toddlers and preschool children in a beautiful Victorian house with generous indoor and outdoor space. The Senior Nursery Practitioner role combines hands-on practice with responsibility for maintaining routines, standards, and quality across the room. Close working relationships with room leaders and management support consistent care and learning. Before You Apply This role requires prior experience as a Senior Nursery Practitioner or experienced Level 3 practitioner A full and relevant Level 3 (or above) Early Years qualification is essential This position is not suitable for candidates without nursery experience Key Job Details Rate of Pay: £15 per hour Hours: Full-time, 4 days per week Shift Pattern: 7:30am–6:30pm Setting: Private day nursery Age Group: Toddlers and Pre-School Why This Role Is Worth Considering A senior role with responsibility, without full management accountability A stable nursery with established routines and consistent staffing An environment designed to feel calm and homely Four-day working week Benefits including free lunch, pension, training, bonus scheme, length of service rewards, and team events What You’ll Need Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification Proven experience as a Senior Practitioner or confident Level 3 practitioner Strong understanding of EYFS and safeguarding requirements Confidence supporting children’s learning and daily routines Desirable Experience mentoring or junior practitioners Additional safeguarding or specialist training What You’ll Do Support high-quality practice within your room and across the nursery Act as a role model for practitioners, supporting standards and routines Maintain safeguarding, welfare, and quality standards at all times Contribute to planning, observations, and assessments Support smooth daily operation of the nursery, including ratios and transitions What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed promptly. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly, with clear and professional communication throughout. Reference: WILL201930/JC INDACC -
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Deputy Nursery Manager
Beddington33280Deputy Nursery Manager - £16 per hour – Permanent The nursery is set in a beautiful Victorian house, with spacious, age-specific rooms for toddlers and preschool children and a dedicated outdoor play area. Day-to-day practice is nurturing, with routines that support learning, independence, and school readiness. This role works closely with the Nursery Manager, sharing responsibility for standards, staff support, and the smooth day-to-day running of the setting. Before You Apply This role requires prior experience as a Deputy Manager, Third in Charge or similar A full and relevant Level 3 (or above) Early Years qualification is essential This position is not suitable for candidates without leadership experience in a nursery setting Key Job Details Rate of Pay: £16 per hour Hours: 40 hours per week, worked across 4 days Setting: Private day nursery Age Group: Toddlers and Pre-School Why This Role Is Worth Considering A clearly defined deputy role with shared responsibility, not sole charge A stable nursery with established routines and consistent staffing An environment designed to feel calm and home like Benefits including free lunch, pension, training, bonus scheme, length of service rewards, and team events What You’ll Need Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification Proven experience in a leadership role within a nursery setting Confidence supporting staff practice and contributing to operational decisions Strong working knowledge of EYFS and safeguarding requirements Desirable Additional safeguarding or leadership training What You’ll Do Support the Nursery Manager with the day-to-day running of the nursery Provide guidance and oversight to room leaders and practitioners Maintain safeguarding, welfare, and quality standards across the setting Contribute to staffing organisation, ratios, and daily operational decisions Act as deputy lead in the Manager’s absence What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed promptly. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly. Reference: WILL201897/JC INDACC -
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Nursery Apprentice (Level 2)
Dagenham26395.2Nursery Apprentice (Early Years Level 2)– Up to £12.60 per hour – Full-Time This nursery supports children’s learning through consistent routines and a broad range of daily activities aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage. As a Nursery Apprentice, you will work alongside qualified practitioners while completing a Level 2 Early Years qualification, contributing to care, learning, and routines across the setting. Full-time hours are offered within an Ofsted-rated Good nursery with clear structure and supervision. Before You Apply This role requires prior experience working in a nursery or early years setting. GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English are essential. This position is not suitable for candidates without relevant early years experience. Key Job Details Pay: Up to £13 per hour Hours: Full-time Contract: Apprenticeship (Level 2 Early Years) Setting: Early years nursery Ofsted: Rated Good Why This Role Is Worth Considering Opportunity to gain a Level 2 Early Years qualification while working Day-to-day learning alongside experienced, qualified practitioners Structured training plan with clear expectations Stable full-time hours in an established nursery setting Exposure to a wide range of EYFS activities and age groups What You’ll Need Previous experience in a nursery or early years setting GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent) Willingness to work towards a Level 2 Early Years qualification Reliability and ability to follow guidance and routines Desirable Experience supporting EYFS activities Familiarity with nursery policies and safeguarding procedures What You’ll Do Support daily care routines for children across the nursery Assist with planned learning activities linked to the EYFS Observe children’s development and contribute to records with guidance Maintain safe, clean, and engaging learning environments Work closely with room staff to ensure consistent care standards What Happens After You Apply Applications are reviewed promptly. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to discuss experience and eligibility. Next steps are clear, professional, and communicated throughout. Reference: WILL200808/JC