Early Years Assistant

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic and committed Early Years Practitioner to join our Nursery at Hatherop Castle School, a highly regarded co-educational day and boarding prep school set in the heart of the Cotswolds. Hatherop Castle School is proud to be part of the Wishford Schools group, combining a strong individual identity with the support and shared expertise of a forward-thinking family of schools.

Our Nursery provides year-round care and education for children aged 2 to 4 years. We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate a strong track record of delivering high-quality teaching and care within the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Applicants should ideally hold a Childcare Diploma or Certificate at Level 3, though candidates who are working towards this qualification, or who would benefit from training, are also encouraged to apply. For the right candidate, we can offer the opportunity to train while working through an apprenticeship scheme, with full support to achieve a Level 3 qualification.

The ideal start date is July 2026, but could be as late as September.

Hours, Salary & Benefits:

Hours: Full or part-time role available. 

Salary: £22,000 - £28,000 pa

Benefits:

• Shopping discount card
• 5% employer pension
• 20 days paid holiday + bank holidays
• Access to the group's counselling scheme 
• Access to fully funded apprenticeships
• Personal accident at work cover
• Opportunities for career development within the?Wishford group of schools and or via the Apprenticeship Scheme. 

Job Description:

• To have due regard for the education of all pupils in the nursery in accordance with the aims, objectives and values 
• To provide pastoral care as an integral part of performing duties as an Early Years Practitioner 
• To share in the corporate responsibility for the well-being and control of all pupils in the nursery 
• To follow the policies for the smooth running of the school as laid down in the Staff Handbook 
• To plan lessons effectively in accordance with the school’s Schemes of Work and Programmes of Study 
• To teach in as exciting and stimulating a way as possible in order to inculcate a love of learning and of school, at the same time having high expectations of pupils and their performance 
• To keep up to date with assessment, record keeping and reporting 
• To attend relevant courses and stay abreast of developments in education in general and the personal area of expertise in particular 
• To be supportive of all events taking place within the school, including those organised by the PA 
• To be part of the Early Years team, planning and implementing activities, delivering effective teaching and learning 
• To be committed to safeguarding children and want to make a difference to improving all children’s learning outcomes, encouraging confident and independent learners 
• To establish positive partnerships with parents, ensuring a cohesive approach to their child’s welfare and progression 

Person Specification:

The successful candidate will have the following skills, experience and qualities: 

• Demonstrates an enthusiasm and passion for teaching and working with children in EYFS. 
• Competent ICT skills. 
• Ability to work on one's own initiative. 
• Excellent team working skills with the ability to work collaboratively and cooperatively with colleagues. 
• Motivated and have the ability to take the initiative to manage workload. 
• Approachable and open manner. 
• A good sense of humour and a positive attitude. 
• Smart and professional in presentation. 
• Flexible and open-minded. 

Qualifications:

Essential: 

• If untrained, willingness to complete a Teaching Assistant (Level 3) or Early Years Educator (Level 3) apprenticeship. 

Desired: 

• Teaching Assistant (Level 3 and above) or Early Years Educator (Level 3 and above).