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- Tasks: Support children's development and create engaging learning experiences in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Federation of Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools, dedicated to inspiring young minds.
- Benefits: Warm team, professional growth opportunities, and a child-centred environment.
- Other info: 25 hours per week, starting September 2026, with a competitive salary.
- Why this job: Join us to nurture curiosity and creativity in children every day.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience in Early Years settings.
The predicted salary is between 18067 - 18353 £ per year.
Kirklees Council are advertising this role on behalf of Crigglestone Nursery School. Help us build something special… Crigglestone Nursery School has been awarded DfE School-Based Nursery funding to expand our provision for 2–3 year-olds — and something exciting is happening. Our beautiful new space is already taking shape, with building work underway and doors set to open in September 2026. Now we’re looking for something just as important as the environment itself… Inspiring Teaching Assistants to bring it to life.
At The Federation of Crigglestone and The Castle Nursery Schools, we believe childhood should be filled with curiosity, creativity, and wonder. We are proud Curiosity Approach settings, where children are encouraged to explore, question, and discover. Our environments are thoughtfully designed to spark awe and fascination—helping children grow into confident thinkers, explorers, and problem-solvers.
Is this you?
- You believe learning begins with curiosity
- You love creating inspiring spaces and meaningful experiences
- You want to be part of a team that truly values Early Years practice
If so, we would love to hear from you.
About Us: We have high aspirations for every child. Our settings are safe, nurturing and inspiring places where children feel confident, valued and ready to explore. Our approach focuses on:
- Inspiring curiosity and imagination
- Nurturing independent thinking
- Encouraging open-ended exploration and play
- Building strong foundations for lifelong learning
The Role: As a Teaching Assistant, you will:
- Support and monitor the development of your key children
- Create engaging experiences that support all areas of development
- Facilitate child-led play with thoughtful interaction
- Work as part of a supportive and passionate team
- Ensure the safety, wellbeing and happiness of every child
- Engage in ongoing professional development
What We’re Looking For: We are seeking practitioners who:
- Hold a Full & Relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above)
- Have PFA (Paediatric First Aid) or are willing to train
- Have experience in Early Years settings
- Are passionate about high-quality practice
- Are strong team players with great communication skills
- Bring warmth, creativity and enthusiasm every day
- Have knowledge of the Curiosity Approach (desirable, not essential)
Most importantly: you see the magic in childhood and want to nurture it.
Why Join Us? When you join our federation, you become part of something truly special. We offer:
- Wonderful children who will inspire you every day
- A warm, welcoming and supportive staff team
- A genuinely child-centred environment
- Opportunities for training and professional growth
- A community where everyone is valued.
Safeguarding: We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to:
- Enhanced DBS checks
- Medical clearance
- Satisfactory references
Additional Information: These are federation roles and staff may work across either setting. Hours: 25 per week (8:45am – 3:30pm). Start Date: 1st September 2026. Pay Range: FTE £25,583 - £25,989 (Pay award pending). Actual Pay: £18,067 - £18,353 for 31.25 hours per week, term time only - Starting salary will depend on experience. Closing Date: Monday 1st June 2026. 12:00 Noon. Interviews: TBC.
Early Years Teaching Assistant Vacancies - Federation of Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools in Wakefield employer: Kirklees Council
Contact Detail:
Kirklees Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Teaching Assistant Vacancies - Federation of Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools in Wakefield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Crigglestone Nursery School and The Castle Nursery Schools. Understand their values, especially the Curiosity Approach, so you can show how you fit into their vision during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a recommendation—always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can inspire curiosity in children. Have some examples ready of how you've created engaging experiences in past roles—this will show you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our special community at Crigglestone Nursery School.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Teaching Assistant Vacancies - Federation of Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for Early Years education shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired curiosity and creativity in children, as this aligns perfectly with our values.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the role we're offering. Highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, especially your Level 3 Early Years qualification and any knowledge of the Curiosity Approach.
Be Authentic: We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. Share what makes you unique and how you can contribute to our nurturing environment.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Council
✨Know Your Curiosity Approach
Familiarise yourself with the Curiosity Approach and how it shapes learning in early years settings. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire curiosity and creativity in children, as this aligns perfectly with what the Federation is looking for.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences in Early Years settings. Highlight moments where you facilitated child-led play or created engaging learning experiences, as these will demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since the role involves working as part of a supportive team, be sure to share instances where you've collaborated effectively with colleagues. Discuss how you communicate with both children and adults to create a nurturing environment.
✨Bring Your Enthusiasm
Let your passion for early childhood education shine through during the interview. Share why you believe in the magic of childhood and how you plan to bring warmth and creativity to the classroom every day.