Nursery Classroom Assistant

Smile Education; Manchester; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 15,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Professional development

Long-term opportunities

Consultant support

Job summary

Smile Education is partnering with a welcoming primary school to recruit a Nursery Classroom Assistant to join their Early Years team. You will help children learn through play, create a nurturing environment, and support learning across the EYFS curriculum.

You will work with experienced teachers to foster curiosity, confidence and independence, supporting speech, language, literacy and numeracy, as well as wellbeing and safeguarding in a collaborative setting.

Qualifications

• Holds a recognised Level 3 Early Years qualification.
• Has previous experience working within a Nursery, Preschool, or Reception setting.
• Strong understanding of child development and the EYFS Framework.

Responsibilities

• Support delivery of engaging Early Years activities and EYFS learning.
• Create a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn and flourish.
• Support individuals and small groups across the curriculum.
• Encourage communication, language, literacy and early numeracy through play.
• Assist with observations and record-keeping to track progress.
• Provide targeted support for SEND and additional learning needs.

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Job description

Nursery Classroom Assistant

Smile Education is proud to be working in partnership with a welcoming and inclusive primary school to recruit a caring, enthusiastic, and dedicated Nursery Classroom Assistant to join their Early Years team.

This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate Early Years professional who thrives on helping young children learn, grow, and develop during the most important stages of their education. You will play a key role in creating a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Working alongside experienced teachers and Early Years practitioners, you will support learning through play, creative activities, and meaningful interactions that inspire curiosity, confidence, and independence.

The Role

• Support the delivery of engaging and stimulating Early Years activities in line with the EYFS Framework.
• Create a safe, positive, and nurturing learning environment where children can flourish.
• Work with individuals and small groups to support learning and development across all areas of the curriculum.
• Encourage communication, language, literacy, and early mathematical skills through play-based learning.
• Support children's personal, social, and emotional development.
• Assist with observations, assessments, and learning records to track children's progress.
• Provide additional support and targeted interventions where required.
• Support children with SEND and additional learning needs.
• Build positive relationships with children, parents, carers, and colleagues.
• Assist with personal care routines when necessary, ensuring dignity and respect at all times.
• Promote positive behaviour and encourage independence through nurturing and consistent support.
• Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health and safety, and professional conduct.

About You

• Holds a recognised Level 3 Early Years qualification.
• Has previous experience working within a Nursery, Preschool, or Reception setting.
• Has a strong understanding of child development and the EYFS Framework.
• Is passionate about supporting children's learning, wellbeing, and early development.
• Can build positive and trusting relationships with young children.
• Has experience supporting communication, language, literacy, and numeracy development.
• Demonstrates patience, enthusiasm, creativity, and a nurturing approach.
• Is committed to inclusion and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.
• Communicates effectively with colleagues, parents, and external professionals.
• Works well independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Understands the importance of safeguarding and maintaining confidentiality.

What We Offer

• A welcoming and supportive school environment.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children's early learning experiences.
• A dedicated and experienced Early Years team.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Competitive rates of pay.
• Access to long-term and permanent opportunities.
• Dedicated support from your Smile Education consultant throughout your placement journey.

Compliance Requirements

• Provide two professional references covering the last two years.
• Hold an Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service or be willing to apply for one through Smile Education.
• Complete all safeguarding and compliance checks in line with safer recruitment guidelines.
• Have the legal right to work in the UK.

REF-SM1ENQ

We are committed to safeguarding children. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Prohibited list, Barred list, DBS and Qualifications.