Teaching Assistant - EYFS

Lower Meadow Primary School; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

Lower Meadow Primary Academy is seeking an EYFS Teaching Assistant to support children across all areas of learning and development in a nurturing early-years environment. The role involves working with teachers, small groups and individuals to foster confidence, curiosity and progress during the crucial early years.

The successful candidate will have a Level 3 EYFS qualification, GCSEs, Paediatric First Aid and safeguarding knowledge, with a passion for helping young children thrive in an

Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
• Paediatric First Aid qualification.
• Experience of working with young children within an Early Years setting.
• Sound understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.
• Knowledge of child development and effective early years practice.
• Understanding safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Support children in their learning through creative, engaging activities.
• Assist with delivery of Early Years experiences promoting communication, literacy, numeracy and development.
• Work with individuals and small groups to provide targeted support.
• Foster children’s confidence, independence, social skills and wellbeing.
• Observe and contribute to assessments of children’s progress.
• Support preparation and organisation of learning resources and classrooms.
• Encourage learning through exploration and purposeful play.
• Maintain safe, stimulating indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Build positive relationships with parents, carers and colleagues.
• Promote safeguarding, inclusion and equal opportunities for all children.

Skills

GCSE English and Maths (4/C)

Paediatric First Aid

Experience with young children

EYFS knowledge

Safeguarding knowledge

Education

CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce

NVQ Level 3 in Childcare and Education

BTEC National Diploma in Children's Care, Learning and Development

Other full Level 3 EYFS qualification

Job description

EYFS Teaching Assistant

Lower Meadow Primary Academy
34 hours per week | Term Time Only | Permanent

Help Shape the Earliest Stages of Learning

At Lower Meadow Primary Academy, we believe every child deserves an exceptional start to their education. We are proud to be a caring, inclusive school where children are encouraged to develop confidence, resilience, curiosity, and a love of learning from the very beginning of their journey.

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic EYFS Teaching Assistant to join our Early Years team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting young children as they learn, explore, and grow through high-quality early years experiences.

Working alongside teachers and colleagues, you will help create a stimulating and nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to achieve their very best.

About the Role

As an EYFS Teaching Assistant, you will support children across all areas of learning and development, helping them build the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive. You will contribute to engaging learning experiences, support children's wellbeing, and play an important role in helping them make positive progress during these crucial early years.

Key Responsibilities

• Support children in their learning through creative, engaging, and developmentally appropriate activities.
• Assist with the delivery of a broad range of Early Years experiences that promote communication, language, literacy, numeracy, and personal development.
• Work with individual pupils and small groups to provide targeted support and encouragement.
• Help foster children's confidence, independence, social skills, and emotional wellbeing.
• Observe and contribute to the assessment of children's progress and achievements.
• Support the preparation and organisation of learning resources and classroom environments.
• Encourage learning through exploration, investigation, and purposeful play.
• Help maintain safe, stimulating indoor and outdoor learning spaces.
• Build positive relationships with parents, carers, colleagues, and external professionals.
• Promote safeguarding, inclusion, positive behaviour, and equal opportunities for all children.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
• A recognised Level 3 Early Years qualification, such as:
  • CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce
  • NVQ Level 3 in Childcare and Education
  • BTEC National Diploma in Children's Care, Learning and Development
  • Or another full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification recognised for EYFS settings.
• Paediatric First Aid qualification.
• Experience of working with young children within an Early Years setting.
• A sound understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.
• Knowledge of child development and effective early years practice.
• An understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.

What We Are Looking For

We would love to hear from candidates who:

• Have a genuine passion for Early Years education.
• Understand the importance of giving children a positive and successful start to school life.
• Are caring, patient, and nurturing in their approach.
• Have excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Can work effectively as part of a collaborative team.
• Are proactive, adaptable, and willing to use their initiative.
• Have high expectations for all children regardless of background or ability.
• Are committed to inclusion and helping every child succeed.
• Demonstrate professionalism, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude every day.

Why Join Us?

This is a rewarding opportunity to work within a supportive school community where staff are valued and children are at the centre of everything we do. You will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact during the most formative years of a child's education while developing your own skills and experience as part of a committed team.

If you are passionate about helping young children flourish and want to play a key role in shaping their educational journey, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Commitment to Safeguarding and EDI:

Astrea Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory background checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check. We value diversity and welcome applications from underrepresented groups. As a Disability Confident employer, we provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to ensure all candidates can fully demonstrate their abilities.

In line with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 and the statutory Code of Practice, the Trust requires all public-facing post holders to demonstrate fluent English. Within a school setting, this applies to all roles that involve direct or indirect interaction with pupils, parents, or members of the public.