Early Years Practitioner - Deerhurst and Apperley C of E School

Grade Grade 3 (pts 4-6) £25,185 - £25,989 pa pro rata
Allowances (Not applicable)
This post is suitable for newly qualified teachers
Hours Part Time (18 hours)
Contract Permanent
Closing Date: 25/11/2026
Interview Date: TBA
Start Date 01/01/2027

Do you have a passion for early childhood education and a belief that every child deserves an exceptional start to their learning journey?

We are seeking an enthusiastic, caring and highly motivated Level 3 Early Years Practitioner to join our well-established preschool within our happy, nurturing and successful primary school in rural Gloucestershire open Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Our preschool is a special place. With a maximum of just 13 children attending each session and additional adult support in place, we are able to provide the personalised care, attention and learning experiences that help children flourish. We welcome children from the age of two and six months, giving them the opportunity to spend a longer period of time with us before making a seamless transition into school.

The setting attracts wonderful children from the surrounding villages and has built an excellent reputation within the local community. Many families choose to continue their educational journey with us as their children move into our primary school, creating a unique sense of belonging and continuity.

Despite our small size, we benefit from extensive, well-maintained grounds that offer exceptional opportunities for outdoor learning, exploration and play. Our setting is highly regarded, thoughtfully designed and committed to putting children's wellbeing, curiosity and development at the heart of everything we do.

About the Role
As an Early Years Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support the day-to-day provision of our preschool.
• Help create a warm, stimulating and engaging environment where children feel safe, valued and inspired.
• Work alongside colleagues to deliver high-quality learning experiences in line with the EYFS framework.
• Encourage children's curiosity, creativity, independence and confidence through play.
• Support children's learning and development through observation and assessment.
• Build positive relationships with children, parents and carers.
• Contribute to smooth transitions into Reception and wider school life.
• Promote children's wellbeing, inclusion and personal development.
• Support the highest standards of safeguarding and welfare at all times.
• Play an active role in the life of our welcoming school community.

We Are Looking For Someone Who:

• Holds a recognised Level 3 Early Years qualification.
• Has experience of working with young children in an Early Years setting.
• Has a good understanding of child development and the EYFS framework.
• Is passionate about play-based learning and child-centred practice.
• Has high expectations for every child's development and achievement.
• Can support engaging learning opportunities both indoors and outdoors.
• Demonstrates excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Builds positive and professional relationships with children, families and colleagues.
• Is reflective, proactive and committed to developing their practice.
• Is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Brings warmth, enthusiasm and a positive attitude to every day.

In Return, We Can Offer:

• A highly regarded preschool with an excellent local reputation.
• Happy, curious and enthusiastic children who love learning.
• Small group sizes, allowing meaningful interaction with every child.
• Extensive outdoor spaces that support rich learning opportunities.
• A supportive and dedicated team who work collaboratively.
• Strong relationships with families and the wider community.
• School leaders who value staff wellbeing and professional development.
• Opportunities for training and career progression.
• A varied and rewarding role where you can make a genuine difference to children's lives every day.
• A welcoming village school environment with a strong sense of community and belonging.

Applications close at 12 noon on Wednesday 25th November.

Deerhurst and Apperley CE Primary school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff, and volunteers, to share the same commitment. This position is subject to an enhanced DBS and background checks in addition to clear references.

To apply, see details to the right of this advert by clicking on 'Website' You may need to scroll down to find the actual advert.