Learning Assistant (EYFS) in Oxford

Learning Assistant (EYFS) in Oxford

Oxford Full-Time 28792 - 30174 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Headington School, Oxford Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support teachers and nurture young minds in a vibrant classroom environment.
  • Company: Join a dedicated team at a leading school focused on early years education.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, pension contributions, and fee remission for your children.
  • Other info: Engage in fun staff activities and access wellbeing programmes to support your growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in education.
  • Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in childcare or equivalent, with experience in early years settings.

The predicted salary is between 28792 - 30174 £ per year.

We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Learning Assistant for EYFS with NVQ Level 3 in childcare (or equivalent early years qualification). The successful applicant will join a dedicated and dynamic EYFS team and work alongside teachers and other Learning Assistants in the department. He/she should have a passion for working with children, a genuine commitment to children’s needs and a willingness to take a full and active part in the life of the School. The hours of work are 7.45 am – 4.45 pm Monday to Friday, term‑time.

Key Responsibilities

  • Take responsibility for the social and emotional wellbeing and the welfare and safety of the pupils in the class, keeping teachers informed of important issues.
  • Support teachers in promoting and fostering a happy and safe classroom ethos and a stimulating learning environment, including the management and preparation of resources.
  • Plan, prepare and deliver small group activities as required, including daily phonics and regular library sessions.
  • Support the teacher in providing regular updates to parents on their child’s progress, through online platforms such as Tapestry/SeeSaw.
  • Engage with and supervise children during outdoor activities such as break times and Forest School sessions.
  • Supervise pupils during early ‘Morning Care’ and ‘Afterschool Care’.
  • Cover supervision of classes as required.
  • Escort children to and from the Senior School site when required.
  • Follow the School’s safeguarding policy, attend relevant training and read updates.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Experience of working with Early Years children, ideally in a classroom setting.
  • Knowledge of the EYFS curriculum.
  • Understanding of child development.
  • Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator).
  • Previous experience of working as a Learning Assistant.
  • Full Paediatric First Aid qualification.

Personal Attributes and Skills

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Energy, enthusiasm, a positive manner and sense of humour.
  • Good initiative and willingness to be flexible.
  • Patience and a sense of calm when needed.
  • Sympathy with the values and ethos of the School.

Terms of Appointment

The Learning Assistant (EYFS) is a full‑time, permanent, term‑time position starting in September 2026. The hours of work are 7.45 am – 4.45 pm Monday‑Friday.

Pension

Contributory membership of the School’s Support Staff Pension Scheme with a School contribution of up to 9.95 per cent upon successful completion of six months’ service.

Fee remission

In accordance with the School’s policy, up to 50 per cent fee remission for pupils attending Headington Rye Oxford and up to 20 per cent fee remission for boys attending Magdalen College School (under a reciprocal agreement) and subject to the terms of their policy. Fee remission is calculated on the number of weeks and hours worked and is pro rata for part‑time staff who work at least 50 per cent of a normal working week.

Prorated Salary

The prorated salary for a full academic year (approximately 33 weeks @ 8.5 hours per day) is approximately £25,000 – £26,205 per annum depending on skills and experience. The exact prorated salary for the remainder of this academic year will be calculated once a start date is agreed. (The full‑time‑equivalent salary based on 37.5 hours per week, all year‑round would be approximately £28,792 – £30,174 per annum).

Additional Benefits

All staff have access to a broad programme of wellbeing activities. The programme includes access to the School’s gym and swimming pool, weekly Step and Tone and Zumba classes, regular staff social activities such as Book Club and Staff Choir. Staff also benefit from free access to the Employee Assistance Programme, a free confidential helpline that offers advice on a range of issues. Free restricted parking is available for all staff on site.

Essential Requirements

Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and DBS and barred lists checks. All appointments are subject to satisfactory completion of all employment checks, including references, Disclosure and Barring Service, medical questionnaire and Right to Work in the UK.

Equal Opportunities

Headington Rye Oxford is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Learning Assistant (EYFS) in Oxford employer: Headington School, Oxford Ltd

At Headington Rye Oxford, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for our Learning Assistants. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we provide access to a range of wellness activities, generous fee remission for staff children, and opportunities for professional growth within a dedicated EYFS team. Our vibrant work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, making it a rewarding place to contribute to the development of young minds.

Headington School, Oxford Ltd

Contact Details:

Headington School, Oxford Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Learning Assistant (EYFS) in Oxford

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its ethos. Familiarise yourself with their approach to EYFS and think about how your experience aligns with their values. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.

Tip Number 3

Show off your passion for working with children during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've supported children's learning and wellbeing in the past. This will demonstrate your commitment and make you memorable to interviewers.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Learning Assistant (EYFS) in Oxford

NVQ Level 3 in childcare
Early Years qualification
Knowledge of the EYFS curriculum
Understanding of child development
Paediatric First Aid qualification
Interpersonal skills
Communication skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see your genuine commitment to their needs and how you can contribute to a happy classroom environment.

Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in early years education. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've supported teachers and engaged with children, so don’t hold back on those details!

Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to make your skills and experiences stand out.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at Headington School, Oxford Ltd

Know Your EYFS Inside Out

Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Familiarise yourself with its key principles and how they apply to child development. This will show your passion for working with children and your commitment to their needs.

Showcase Your Experience

Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully supported teachers or managed small group activities. Highlight any experience with phonics or library sessions, as this is crucial for the role. Real-life stories can make a big impact!

Demonstrate Your Interpersonal Skills

Since excellent communication is key in this role, think of ways to showcase your interpersonal skills during the interview. Be ready to discuss how you’ve built relationships with children, parents, and colleagues, and how you handle challenging situations with patience and calm.

Engage with the School's Ethos

Research the school's values and ethos before your interview. Be prepared to discuss how your personal attributes align with them. Showing that you understand and sympathise with their mission will set you apart as a candidate who truly fits into their team.