Are you ready to shape the foundations of a child’s future?
Do you have a deep understanding of how our youngest learners grow, play, and discover? Do you believe that the values of love, respect, and friendship are the essential ingredients for a child’s first steps into the world of education?
If so, we’d love for you to join our amazing Richard Crosse family! We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Early Years Teaching Assistant who is passionate about nurturing the "whole child" and creating a magical start to their school life.
About Us
At Richard Crosse, we are more than just a school; we are a community built on strong values. We believe that the Early Years are the most critical time in a child's development. Our EYFS environment is a place where curiosity is celebrated, and every child is supported to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally within a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
About the Role
As an Early Years Teaching Assistant, you will be an architect of play and a champion of discovery. Your role is to support the "whole child," ensuring that every 3-to-5-year-old in our care feels safe, valued, and inspired to learn.
You will:
- Support the delivery of the EYFS curriculum, helping children explore the Seven Areas of Learning through a balance of adult-led activities and child-initiated play.
- Nurture the "Whole Child," focusing not just on early literacy and numeracy, but on their physical development, communication, and social-emotional wellbeing.
- Observe and track progress, capturing those vital "milestone moments" that help us understand each child’s unique learning journey.
- Create a stimulating environment, setting up engaging, open-ended learning zones that spark imagination and curiosity.
- Build strong partnerships with parents, ensuring a smooth and happy transition between home and school.
- Be a positive role model, embodying our school values and fostering a culture of kindness and respect from the very beginning.
What We’re Looking For
- Early Years Expertise: A strong understanding of child development and how children aged 3-5 learn best.
- A Holistic Approach: A commitment to supporting every aspect of a child’s growth—from their first friendships to their first phonics.
- Creativity and Energy: Someone who isn't afraid to get messy, sing songs, or turn a cardboard box into a spaceship!
- Excellent Communication: The ability to connect with young children and collaborate effectively with a professional team.
- Qualifications: A Teaching Assistant qualification (Level 2 or 3) or equivalent, with specific knowledge of the EYFS framework.
Other Information
Hours for this role are 30 per week, to be worked Mon-Fri, 8.45am - 3.15pm, with a 30m unpaid break. The contract is term time only. Interviews will be held on the 10th June and we are hopeful for a start date of 25th August.
What We Offer
- A supportive, vibrant, and welcoming school environment.
- Opportunities for professional development in Early Years pedagogy.
- The chance to make a lasting impact on a child’s very first educational experiences.
- A team that truly cares about each other and the community we serve.
Come and See for Yourself! We welcome and strongly encourage any applicant to come and look around our school and our Early Years setting before applying. Job Shares can be considered. Please contact the school office on 01543 472 245 to arrange an appointment.
To apply for the position please download the supporting documents and return a hand signed completed application form to recruitment@tssmat.staffs.sch.uk
Please note TSSMAT’s Terms & Conditions may differ from standard, and you are advised to read the sample contract provided on request. TSSMAT also has different term dates to standard. These can be found on our website.
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Due to this post having access to children and/or vulnerable adults, candidates will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided. Online checks will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates. References are requested prior to interview.