Early Years Practitioner

Exeter School; Exminster; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

An independent nursery school in Exminster seeks an Early Years Practitioner to support children aged 3-4 years as a classroom assistant. This role requires working 18 hours a week on a term-time basis. Key responsibilities include assisting with lessons and pastoral care, while qualified candidates should have relevant experience in Early Years education. Benefits include a competitive salary and free school lunch during term time.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Free school lunch during term time

Free on-site parking

Generous benefits

Qualifications

• Experience of working in Early Years in a primary school or nursery setting.
• Relevant qualification in Childcare and/or Early Years Education at a minimum of Level 3.

Responsibilities

• Assist children on an individual basis, in small group, and whole class work.
• Plan, organize, and deliver activities that support the curriculum.
• Support the teacher in maintaining a safe and nurturing environment.
• Assist with pastoral care and classroom routines.

Skills

Experience of working in Early Years

Relevant qualification in Childcare/Early Years Education (Level 3)

Job description

Early Years Practitioner (Nursery Classroom Assistant)

We are an independent pre-preparatory and nursery school for 75 girls and boys aged 3‑7 years, previously known as The New School. In 2021, we became part of the Exeter School family.

The pre‑prep school is located in a former Victorian chapel on a private, wide, tree‑lined avenue within an acre of grounds. Just three miles from central Exeter in the village of Exminster, it provides an oasis of calm from the bustle of city life.

About the Role

We are seeking an Early Years Practitioner to join our small, friendly professional team on a permanent basis, working 2 days a week (Thursdays and Fridays) from 23 February 2026. The successful applicant will act as a Nursery classroom assistant, supporting children aged 3‑4 years old both inside and outside the classroom with their learning and pastoral care.

Responsibilities

• Assist children on an individual basis, in small group, and whole class work (maximum class size 16 children).
• Plan, organize, and deliver activities that support the curriculum for early years.
• Support the teacher in maintaining a safe and nurturing environment.
• Assist with pastoral care and classroom routines.

Qualifications & Experience

• Experience of working in Early Years in a primary school or nursery setting.
• Relevant qualification in Childcare and/or Early Years Education at a minimum of Level 3.

Working Hours & Conditions

Term‑time contract working from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm on Thursdays and Fridays (18 hours per week) for 36 weeks per year. This is an onsite role.

We offer a competitive salary, free school lunch during term time, free on‑site parking, and other generous benefits.

Application Process

The closing date for applications is noon on 6 January 2026. Interviews will be scheduled for Thursday 15 January 2026. Applications must include a completed Exeter School application form; a CV alone is not sufficient for safeguarding purposes.

Equal Opportunities & Safeguarding

Exeter School is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from any appropriately qualified person. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. Employment is subject to the receipt of two satisfactory references provided specifically for this post and addressed to the school, and to satisfactory DBS clearance.

Regulated Activity

This post falls into the category of Regulated Activity. Similar safeguarding requirements apply.

Note on Sponsorship

We regret to inform you that we are unable to offer sponsorship for work authorisation for this role. Candidates must possess valid authorisation to work in the UK without requiring visa sponsorship.