Early Years Assistant

Highbury Primary School; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Highbury Primary School Early Years is seeking an Early Years Assistant to join the EYFS team in Portsmouth. The role supports emotional and learning development of children aged 9 months to 5 years, working 32.5 hours per week over 38 weeks per year under a permanent contract.

Salary ranges from £24,795.86 to £25,584, with ASAP start and a structured liaison role with teachers, nursery staff, parents and external organisations to ensure high-quality childcare and education.

Responsibilities

• Support the emotional and learning development of Early Years children within a child-centred environment.
• Liaise with teachers, nursery staff, parents, carers and external organisations to ensure a collaborative approach within the nursery and EYFS setting.

Job description

Early Years Assistant (TPR)

Closing Date: 04/09/2026

Pay & Contract

£24,795.86 to £25,584 Salary

Grade: Trust Grade 2

Actual Salary: £24,795.86 - £25,584 (Actual £17,950.97 - £18,811.49)

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 32.5 hours per week (hours tba Mon-Fri with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break) 38 weeks per year

Start Date: ASAP

Closing Date: 04/09/2026 by 12:00 noon

Interview Date: w/c 07/09/2026

Highbury Primary School

Highbury Primary School Early Years is a warm and welcoming setting dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality care and education that supports every child’s development.

Position Description

As part of the EYFS team, the role involves supporting the emotional and learning development of Early Years children within a child-centred environment, while maintaining high standards of childcare and promoting positive behaviour. It also requires effective liaison with teachers, nursery staff, teaching assistants, parents, carers, and external organisations to ensure a collaborative approach within the nursery and EYFS setting. Additionally, the role provides appropriate support and guidance to meet individual pupil needs, helping children transition successfully to primary school and ensuring they are fully supported throughout their first year.

We are looking for a caring and enthusiastic Early Years Assistant to join our team. You will work closely with qualified practitioners to create a positive and engaging learning environment for children aged 9 months - 5 Years.

The University of Chichester Academy Trust

You will be part of The University of Chichester Academy Trust, which is uniquely positioned to make a difference in the local educational landscape. The Trust currently encompasses 17 academies, 2 Inclusion centres, and a School-Centred Initial Teacher Training base, all based in Hampshire, Portsmouth, and West Sussex. While we share a common vision and values, each academy has its own identity that contributes to its local community. The Trust is committed to valuing the uniqueness of each school.

Two-Week October Half Term

We have introduced a two-week October half-term across all our schools. This initiative is already making a positive impact, giving staff and pupils a valuable break during the long autumn term, reducing absence through illness, and supporting overall well-being. It also brings greater consistency across our Trust, creating a more connected and efficient way of working. It is just one example of how we prioritise our people and create a working environment where everyone can thrive.

Diversity and Inclusion

At the University of Chichester Academy Trust, we believe that diversity drives creativity, innovation, and excellence. We are committed to providing equality of opportunity, fostering an inclusive culture, and creating a community where everyone feels they belong. We particularly welcome applications from individuals who are underrepresented within our workforce, including those from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled individuals, LGBTQI+ individuals, and women—especially for senior leadership roles.

Safeguarding Commitment

We are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Our recruitment and selection practices will reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks, along with other relevant employment checks.

Application Process

For any questions about the application process, please get in touch with our Central People Team on [e-mail]