We are seeking to appoint a dedicated and enthusiastic Level 1 Teaching Assistant to join our Nursery team at Malin Bridge. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about working with young children to join our Nursery ‘Stepping Stones’ which is a self-contained 20 place Nursery for 2- to 3-year-olds.

Staff retention is high at Malin Bridge, which reflects the investment we make in our people. We are committed to supporting and developing our staff, so they feel valued and confident in providing the best possible care and education for our children.

Job description

The post holder must at all times carry out their responsibilities within the spirit of the school and trust policies and within the framework of legislation relating to academies and education, with particular regard to the statutory responsibilities of the trust and the governing body of the school.

Specific duties and responsibilities

To work under the supervision of qualified early years staff to support the provision of a high-quality early education and care experience for children aged 2-3 years in the maintained nursery class.

Duties will include, but not be limited to:

1.1                 Supporting Children’s Learning and Development

·         Assist in the daily care routines of children, including feeding, toileting and hygiene.

·         Work with the nursery team to plan and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate activities following the EYFS.

·         Support children’s personal, social, and emotional development through positive relationships and play.

·         Observe and record children’s learning, contributing to assessments and next steps under the guidance of a qualified practitioner or teacher.

·         Promote children’s independence and curiosity through child-led and adult-led experiences.

·         Assist in creating an inviting, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment indoors and outdoors.

1.2                 Safeguarding and Welfare

·         Follow the school’s safeguarding and child protection procedures at all times.

·         Promote the health, safety, and wellbeing of all children, including supporting toileting, hygiene, and mealtime routines.

·         Report any concerns or incidents promptly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

·         Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

1.3                 Supporting the Nursery Team

·         Work collaboratively with teachers, teaching assistants, and other staff to meet the needs of all children.

·         Participate in planning meetings, training, and activities as appropriate.

·         Follow daily routines and take responsibility for tasks such as setting up activities and tidying learning areas.

·         Reflect on practice and seek guidance and feedback from supervisors to improve performance.

1.4                 Communication and Partnership

·         Develop positive relationships with children, parents/carers, and colleagues.

·         Contribute to a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where all families feel valued.

·         Support effective communication between home and school under the direction of staff.

·         Uphold the school’s ethos, values, and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Support for Trust/School 

·         Be aware of and comply with policies and procedures relating to child protection, health, safety and security, confidentiality and data protection, reporting all concerns to an appropriate person.

·         Work in a flexible way to respond to the needs of the trust and to fulfil other duties and responsibilities appropriate to the grade and role as and when required.

·         Be aware of and support difference and ensure equal opportunities for all.

·         Appreciate and support the role of other professionals.

·         Attend and participate in relevant meetings as required.

·         Contribute to the overall ethos/work/aims of the trust/schools.

·         Participate in relevant training, other learning activities and performance management as required.

·         Team responsibilities: all staff are considered part of the overall trust team and may be required to provide assistance to colleagues in other areas from time to time commensurate with the role, skillset and grade.

·         From time to time, to meet the needs of the trust, you may be asked but not expected to work hours additional to your normal working hours.  The trust will give you as much notice as possible and you will be paid/recompensed for such work.  Situations where this might be required are, for example: relevant key school events such as open evenings, exam results days, trips, clubs, training etc.

Changes to these duties

The above duties are not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to undertake tasks, roles and responsibilities as may be reasonably assigned to them by the Headteacher/Principal.

The job description and allocation of particular responsibilities will be kept under review and may be amended via consultation with individuals, the governing body or board of trustees and/or senior leadership team as required. Trade union representation will be welcomed in any such discussions.