IMPORTANT NOTICE
Neilson Early Years Leaders primarily look after infants and MUST be either NVQ qualified between Levels 2 - 5 in Early Years Education and Childcare or hold a BA Hons in Early Childhood Education.
If you do not hold these or an equivalent Early Years qualification, please DO NOT proceed with this application.
Working with Neilson Active Holidays isn’t just a job – it’s a lifestyle. As an Early Years Leader, you’ll spend the winter season in one of our stunning European ski resorts, sharing your energy, creativity, and passion for early childhood care in a unique alpine setting.
We want every family holiday to be unforgettable – and that means making sure our youngest guests enjoy a safe, exciting, and nurturing experience. We’re looking for Level 3 qualified childcare professionals or highly experienced early years practitioners to lead the way in delivering engaging, high-quality care.
You’ll be based at one of our handpicked Neilson Mountain Collection Hotels, working across our dedicated children’s clubs:
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Snow Angels Club (4–23 months)
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Snowman Club (2–4 years)
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Snow Busters (5–12 years)
From storytelling to snow play, messy art to mountain walks, your days will be packed with variety – and so will the children’s! You’ll also contribute to our evening babysitting service as part of the guest offering.
We’re always on the lookout for friendly, warm, and proactive individuals who can build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues alike – and who thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Represent Neilson with a professional, positive, and proactive attitude at all times.
- Deliver a fun, safe, and stimulating daytime and evening activity programme for children aged 4 months to 12 years, tailored to each club age group.
- Use creativity to make the most of your environment, facilities, and resources – both indoors and outdoors.
- Always prioritise Health & Safety and child safeguarding in every activity and environment.
- Build strong relationships with parents and guardians through daily communication, ensuring individual needs and preferences are met.
- Prepare and serve suitable snacks and meals, following Neilson’s allergen and HACCP procedures.
- Keep club rooms, toys, and equipment clean, safe, and well-maintained – including sterilisation where necessary.
- Take shared responsibility for the overall look, security, and operation of your club space.
- Support your team in the setup, operation, and takedown of the daily programme.
- Assist with pre-season resort setup and end-of-season pack down.
- Host or support social events, guest briefings, and resort activities as required.
- Be flexible and willing to relocate between resorts during the season if business needs require.
- Carry out additional duties as reasonably requested by your manager and within your training scope.
Qualifications & Experience Required:
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Level 3 childcare qualification (e.g. CACHE, NNEB, NVQ Level 3 or equivalent) – essential
- Valid First Aid certificate (must remain valid for the full contract duration)
- Educated to GCSE level or equivalent
- Experience caring for babies and young children in a group setting
- Previous customer service experience – ideally in a hospitality or holiday environment
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Ability to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities with confidence
- Strong understanding of child development and safeguarding
- Knowledge of emergency First Aid procedures and child-specific care needs
- Excellent communication skills with both children and adults
- Strong team player with the ability to take initiative and work independently
- Able to remain calm, adaptable, and positive in a fast-paced, changing environment
Personal Qualities:
- Friendly, welcoming, and approachable
- Energetic and enthusiastic
- Responsible and self-motivated
- Organised and punctual
- Presentable, clean, and tidy in appearance
- Passionate about working with children and making memories that last
Working for Neilson
There is much to be gained from working anywhere within the Neilson programme. The people skills, the life skills, the confidence you'll develop, and the overall experience will stay with you forever.
You will have the time of your life, make a bunch of new friends, enjoy mad adventures, and create stories you'll be telling for years.
The package includes:
- Staff accommodation provided on a shared basis - No bills to stress about
- Discounted rates on seasonal lift passes - Payment plans available
- Meals provided while on duty
- Travel to and from the resort, within Europe (subject to our staff travel policy)
- Visa & permits if applicable (UK Passport holders)
- Full training, including E-learning packages
- Uniform specific to your job role
- Allocated days off
- Mate's rates & family holiday discounts
- Emergency medical & dental insurance
- 24/7 access to Emergency Assistance Support – Independent mental health support service
- Staff discount on resort bars & spas
Please note: All Neilson staff are DBS-checked.