A first-day induction checklist for temporary nursery staff

When a temporary practitioner joins your nursery, the first hour sets the tone. Children notice a new face straight away, and the new member of staff is working out where everything is while also trying to be useful. A simple first-day induction checklist for temporary nursery staff gives everybody confidence from the start.

You do not need a long document. The aim is to cover safeguarding, routines and relationships in a way that feels welcoming and manageable. Here is a structure you can adapt for your setting.

Before the day: share the essentials

A short message the day before saves time on arrival. Let the practitioner know the start time, where to park or which entrance to use, who will meet them and what to bring, such as photo ID. If your dress code or footwear rules are particular, mention them too.

Check that the necessary employment checks and identity documents are confirmed through your supply partner before the person arrives. Your usual safer recruitment process still applies, and confirming it in advance avoids awkward delays at the door.

On arrival: safeguarding first

Start with the people and policies that keep children safe. Introduce the designated safeguarding lead and their deputy, show where the safeguarding policy is kept and explain how to report a concern. Cover the setting's rules about mobile phones, photographs and visitors.

Share the key points of the statutory framework for the early years foundation stage that matter most on day one, such as supervision, ratios in the room they will be working in and what to do in an emergency. Show fire exits and assembly points, and make sure the practitioner knows where first aid supplies are.

Settling into the room

Pair the newcomer with a named buddy for the day. This should be someone who knows the children well and is happy to answer questions. Walk through the daily routine together, from arrivals to mealtimes, nappy changing, sleep and outdoor play.

Share the information that helps them care for children well: allergies, medical needs, special requirements and any comfort routines that help certain children settle. A one page room summary with photos of the children and key facts, kept confidential and secure, can help a lot. Point out where resources are stored, and let them know how the setting handles observations and notes.

During and after the day: check in and close the loop

Plan two short check ins, one mid morning and one before home time. Ask how things are going, answer questions and offer help. At the end of the day, thank the person and ask what would have made the day easier.

Record any feedback for next time, and let your partner know how it went. If you would like the same practitioner to return, say so. Familiar faces help children feel secure and make future inductions much shorter.

Making the checklist work for your team

An induction checklist for temporary nursery staff is only useful if it is simple enough to use under pressure. Keep it to one page, put it where room leaders can reach it and let permanent staff add their own tips. Ask a colleague who joined recently what they wished someone had told them on day one, and add it. Share the checklist with your partner too, so that practitioners know what to expect before they walk through your door. A shared understanding makes the whole process feel calmer and more professional.

Keeping the checklist alive

Review your induction checklist each term. Ask permanent and temporary staff what they found useful, and trim anything that no longer helps. An induction checklist for temporary nursery staff is a clear, kind first-day routine that protects children and helps every practitioner feel part of the team.