At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young children in their learning journey through engaging play-based activities.
- Company: Lift Shafton, a warm and inclusive primary school community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, healthcare, and lifestyle perks.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to outstanding education and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's lives in a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification and experience with early years children.
The predicted salary is between 15866 - 16374 £ per year.
Job Description
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Salary: NJC 5-7 £15,866 - £16,374 (Actual) £25,583 - £26,403 (FTE) well-being cash plan + pension scheme (LGPS) + additional Lift Schools benefitsHours: 27.5 hours per week - 38 weeks per year Contract type: PermanentStart date: December 2025Closing date: 17th Oct Interview dates: 24th Oct Are you ready to make a positive difference at Lift Shafton’s outstanding, warm and inclusive primary school setting? We are seeking a dedicated and fun early years Nursery Teaching Assistant to support children within our brand new nursery (Opening January 2026). We welcome applications from individuals who are passionate about shaping the very start of a child's learning journey, supporting them with the energy, creativity and commitment they deserve.
About the role
As a Nursery Teaching Assistant, you'll play a vital part in supporting our youngest children at the very start of their educational journey. Each day brings new discoveries, and your role will be to nurture curiosity, build confidence, and help every child feel secure, valued and ready to learn.
You’ll work closely with the Nursery class teacher and other early years practitioners to deliver engaging, play-based activities that develop children’s communication, physical, social and emotional skills. From storytelling and counting games to outdoor learning and messy play, you’ll help children explore the world around them in safe, structured and creative ways.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting children one-to-one and/or in small groups
- Encouraging language development through play, songs and conversation
- Observing and recording progress, feeding this back to the class teacher
- Supporting personal care needs with kindness and dignity
- Helping to create stimulating, well-organised learning space
- Building strong, trusting relationships with children, families and staff
- Promoting good behaviour, emotional well-being and a sense of belonging
Skills and Experience we would like to see:
- Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (essential)
- Experience supporting early years aged children (up to 5 years old)
- Patience, kindness and resilience
- Familiarity with phonics programmes such as Read Write Inc
- Understanding of child development and how children learn
- A flexible, proactive approach and a genuine passion for primary education
- Paediatric first aid is advantageous
UK right to work, as this role is not eligible for sponsorship
About Lift Shafton
Lift Shafton is a welcoming and inclusive school community where every child and every member of staff experiences a genuine sense of belonging. We are proud to provide a supportive, nurturing and joyful environment in which our team works collectively to deliver the outstanding education that our families deserve.
Lift Shafton is a truly special place to learn and to work – a professional yet caring community where dedicated and talented staff are valued and enabled to thrive, and where all children, regardless of background or ability, are supported to flourish. We are also delighted to be extending our provision with the launch of a new nursery in January 2026.
Contact info for anybody wanting to arrange a visit: Closing date: 17th Oct Interview dates: 24th Oct
Who is Lift Schools?
We’re a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - in every classroom, every day. And we do this across each of our 57 schools. As with our students, we want our team to be empowered to do their best work, supported by the best leadership they’ve ever had.
We acknowledge and appreciate the exceptional efforts of everyone here in making this an incredible organisation.
We offer you:
- Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career.
- Generous benefits: From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered.
- Lifestyle perks: Enjoy discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and even electric vehicle incentives.
Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is inline with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered.
We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
Follow us on , , and . Further details can be found on our careers page.
Lift Schools is recruiting for Teacher Training placements. Please click to view the website for further details.
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Nursery Teaching Assistant in Barnsley employer: Lift Shafton
Lift Shafton is an exceptional employer that fosters a warm and inclusive environment, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to support early years education. With comprehensive training opportunities, generous benefits including a well-being cash plan and pension scheme, and a commitment to employee growth, staff are empowered to thrive in their roles. The upcoming launch of our new nursery in January 2026 further enhances the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children's lives in a supportive community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Teaching Assistant in Barnsley
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, check out Lift Shafton’s website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their values and recent activities. This will help you connect during the interview and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with supporting early years children and nurturing their development. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your A-game! Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the school community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for joining Lift Shafton and making a difference in children's lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Teaching Assistant in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! We want to see how much you care about making a difference in children's lives, so share your experiences and what motivates you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role of a Nursery Teaching Assistant. We love seeing how you fit into our vision!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion at a glance.
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. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lift Shafton
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Nursery Teaching Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with early years education principles, child development, and the specific activities mentioned in the job description. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your passion for supporting young learners.
✨Show Your Personality
This role is all about nurturing and building relationships with children. Be prepared to share examples of how you've engaged with kids in the past. Whether it’s through storytelling or play-based learning, let your enthusiasm shine through during the interview!
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the nursery's approach to early years education or how they support staff development. This shows that you're genuinely interested in the role and the school community.
✨Demonstrate Your Values
Lift Shafton values kindness, patience, and resilience. Think of examples from your experience that highlight these qualities. Whether it's handling a challenging situation with a child or working collaboratively with colleagues, make sure to convey how your values align with theirs.
