EYFS Teaching Assistant

Long Term Futures; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Long Term Futures is recruiting an experienced EYFS SEND Teaching Assistant to join a supportive primary school in Nottingham. The role requires reliable commuting to NG5 for a September 2026 start, with responsibilities spanning 1:1 and small-group support for children with SEND within the EYFS setting.

You will work with pupils needing support for Autism, Speech & Language needs, and developmental delays, using play-based activities and visual communication strategies.

Qualifications

• Previous experience supporting children with SEND is essential.
• Experience with EYFS, Nursery or Reception settings preferred.
• Strong understanding of Autism, Speech & Language needs and communication.
• Ability to implement visual communication strategies (PECS/Makaton) where appropriate.

Responsibilities

• Provide targeted 1:1 and small-group support for children with SEND.
• Support pupils with needs including Autism (ASD), Speech & Language difficulties, communication needs and developmental delay.
• Help children access learning through structured and play-based activities.
• Support communication using visual aids, PECS, Makaton or similar strategies where appropriate.
• Encourage children's social interaction, independence and confidence.
• Support sensory and emotional regulation throughout the school day.
• Follow strategies outlined within EHCPs and individual support plans.
• Work alongside the EYFS teacher, SENCo and wider support team to monitor progress.
• Support early phonics, communication, language and numeracy development.
• Assist with transitions, routines and personal development.

Skills

1:1 support

Small-group support

SEND experience

EYFS/Nursery/Reception

Autism & S&L needs

PECS/Makaton

Job description

EYFS Teaching Assistant (BBBH1603) Nottingham, England

Long Term Futures is recruiting an experienced EYFS SEND Teaching Assistant to join a supportive primary school in Nottingham. Applicants must be able to reliably commute to the NG5 area for a September 2026 start.

This role is ideal for someone who combines a strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage with practical experience supporting children with additional needs. You will work closely with young pupils who require extra support with communication, engagement, emotional regulation and accessing the EYFS curriculum.

The school is looking for someone nurturing and patient, but equally proactive, confident and able to use their initiative throughout a busy Early Years environment.

About the Role

As an EYFS SEND Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Provide targeted 1:1 and small-group support for children with SEND
• Support pupils with needs including Autism (ASD), Speech & Language difficulties, communication needs and developmental delay
• Help children access learning through structured and play-based activities
• Support communication using visual aids, PECS, Makaton or similar strategies where appropriate
• Encourage children's social interaction, independence and confidence
• Support sensory and emotional regulation throughout the school day
• Follow strategies outlined within EHCPs and individual support plans
• Work alongside the EYFS teacher, SENCo and wider support team to monitor progress
• Support early phonics, communication, language and numeracy development
• Assist with transitions, routines and personal development

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Previous experience supporting children with SEND is essential
• Experience within EYFS, Nursery or Reception is strongly preferred
• Good understanding of Autism, Speech & Language and communication needs
• Knowledge of the EYFS Framework and early child development
• Confident providing dedicated 1:1 support
• Experience with PECS, Makaton, visual communication or SALT strategies is advantageous
• Patient, nurturing and able to build trusting relationships with young children
• Proactive, reliable and committed to a long-term position
• Able to commute reliably to Nottingham, NG5

About the School

• Mainstream primary school based in Nottingham, NG5
• Inclusive and supportive approach to SEND
• Experienced EYFS and SEN team
• Strong focus on communication, independence and individual development
• Supportive leadership with opportunities for further SEND training

Why Work with Long Term Futures?

• Long-term position offering stability and consistency
• Potential progression into a permanent school-based role
• Weekly pay through our streamlined digital payroll system
• Free CPD covering SEND, Autism, Early Years and Safeguarding
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement

Next Steps

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by Hannah at Long Term Futures.

Long Term Futures is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.