Learning Support Assistant - Early Years

Shorefields; Rayleigh; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Shorefields is seeking a dedicated Learning Support Assistant for the Early Years to support teaching and learning in a Catholic ethos setting. The role involves working with young children, promoting holistic development and creating an engaging indoor/outdoor learning environment.

Experience in Early Years or Key Stage 1 and a focus on child development are valued, with additional Desirable qualifications including NVQ, HLTA status, and First Aid.

Qualifications

• Experience in Early Years settings and/or Key Stage 1.
• Desirable: qualifications in Early Years or related credentials.
• Desirable: First Aid qualification.
• A good standard of English and mathematics is essential.

Responsibilities

• Support the class teacher in creating an engaging and stimulating learning environment.
• Promote children's curiosity, independence, progress and wellbeing.
• Deliver phonics programmes and support speech and language development where needed.
• Build positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.

Skills

Early Years

Phonics programmes

SEND experience

Speech and language

Education

Early Years qualifications

NVQ

HLTA status

First Aid qualification

Job description

Learning Support Assistant - Early Years

Position Start Date: 01/09/2026 Contract Type: Full-time Contract Term: Permanent

Application Close: 24/08/2026 4pm Date of Interviews: tbc

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young children?

Do you thrive in a busy, active environment where children are at the heart of everything you do?

We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic and nurturing Early Years Learning Support Assistant to join our established, supportive team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced practitioner who is committed to helping every child flourish and reach their full potential.

At our school, building strong, positive and nurturing relationships is central to everything we do. We are looking for someone who is motivated to bring out the best in every child and who can work within our distinctly Catholic ethos.

The successful candidate will have experience of working within an Early Years setting and/or Key Stage 1 and a strong understanding of child development and Early Years pedagogy. You will support the class teacher in creating an engaging and stimulating learning environment that promotes children's curiosity, independence, progress and wellbeing.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience working within Early Years and/or Key Stage 1.
• Demonstrates a sound understanding of child development and effective Early Years practice.
• Is passionate about creating engaging learning opportunities both indoors and outdoors.
• Enjoys supporting children's learning and play in a stimulating environment.
• Is warm, caring, patient and empathetic.
• Is organized, flexible and able to think on their feet.
• Shows initiative and has a positive, can‑do attitude.
• Works effectively as part of a collaborative and supportive team.
• Builds positive relationships with children, families and colleagues.
• Places children's wellbeing, learning and development at the centre of their practice.
• Has a good sense of humour and enjoys the varied nature of school life.

Experience in the following areas would be particularly desirable:

• Supporting the delivery of phonics programmes.
• Working with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
• Delivering speech and language interventions and supporting communication development.
• Supporting children with a range of learning, emotional and social needs.

Holistic development is embraced across our school. We are therefore seeking an individual who can promote the physical, spiritual, emotional, intellectual and social development of every child.

Early Years qualifications, NVQs, Learning Support Assistant qualifications and/or HLTA status are desirable. A First Aid qualification would also be advantageous. A good standard of English and mathematics is essential.

We use a Trauma Perceptive Practice approach and place the highest value on inclusion, belonging and celebrating diversity.

In return, we offer the opportunity to work within a welcoming and supportive school community where children are valued, staff are encouraged to develop professionally, and every day brings new opportunities to make a positive difference.

The Governing Body is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Following safer recruitment procedures, any appointment will be subject to satisfactory references, medical clearance and an enhanced DBS check.

All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.