Teaching Assistants (4)

Role Overview

This position sits within a private premium early years setting, where you will work alongside lead educators to keep the daily rhythm flowing smoothly. Your focus will be on the practical, hands-on aspects of the day—helping children through mealtimes, settling them for naps, supervising outdoor play, keeping learning areas tidy and inviting, and stepping in to support focused learning activities. The school relies on you to be the calm, consistent presence that allows young children to feel safe, cared for, and ready to explore.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with serving meals and snacks, encouraging positive table manners, and supporting children who need extra help with eating.
• Prepare and supervise nap times, including setting up rest areas, soothing children to sleep, and monitoring them throughout the rest period.
• Organise and lead outdoor play sessions, ensuring all equipment is safe, age-appropriate, and that children are actively supervised at all times.
• Set up and refresh classroom learning centres—such as reading corners, sensory tables, and creative stations—so they are ready for each day's planned activities.
• Work alongside teachers during structured learning time, helping individual children stay engaged and offering one-on-one support where needed.
• Maintain cleanliness and order across the classroom and shared spaces, tidying up after activities and following hygiene protocols strictly.
• Observe and report any concerns about a child's wellbeing, behaviour, or development to the lead teacher or designated safeguarding lead.
• Follow the setting's daily routines precisely, from drop-off to handover, so that every transition feels predictable and secure for the children.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Proven experience working with early years children in a nursery, preschool, or reception setting—ideally within a private or premium school environment.
• A recognised early years qualification (such as CACHE Level 2 or 3, NVQ, or an equivalent) is strongly preferred.
• A natural sense of patience and attentiveness, enabling you to respond calmly to tantrums, tears, and the unpredictable moments of daily nursery life.
• A strong instinct for safeguarding, with the alertness to notice when a child seems distressed, withdrawn, or at risk, and the confidence to act on those observations.
• Excellent personal hygiene and a meticulous approach to cleanliness, from washing hands to wiping surfaces and managing nappy changes.
• The ability to follow routines and instructions precisely, without needing constant supervision, while still knowing when to pause and ask for guidance.
• Good communication skills, both for speaking gently with children and for updating parents and colleagues about a child's day.
• A current enhanced DBS check (or willingness to undergo one) and up-to-date paediatric first aid certification are both required.