At a Glance
- Tasks: Support early years learning and help children thrive in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the dedicated team at John Rankin Infant and Nursery School.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to inclusion and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and strong teamwork skills required.
The predicted salary is between 16600 - 21300 £ per year.
Location: Garford Crescent, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 6EX
Contract Type: Permanent | Contract Term: Part-Time
Salary: £19,658.46 Annually (Actual) | Grade 4 SCP 7-11 FTE £26,402. Part-Time working 32.5 hours per week Term Time only Plus 3 INSET days.
Closing Date: Midnight, Mon 23rd Mar, 2026 | Start Date: 13/04/2026 | Positions Available: 1
About This Role
We are seeking a committed and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant (Nursery) to join our dedicated Early Years team at John Rankin on a permanent basis. This role involves supporting the class lead in delivering high-quality early years provision, enabling children to access learning, engage positively and make strong progress within the EYFS Framework. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting pupils’ learning, development and wellbeing, while contributing to a safe, inclusive and nurturing nursery environment. The postholder will work closely with teaching staff to support individuals, small groups and the class as a whole, indoors and outdoors, and will demonstrate a clear and consistent commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Key Responsibilities
- Teaching and Learning: Support the delivery of engaging learning experiences in line with the EYFS Framework and Development Matters. Work within key worker groups to monitor progress and contribute to children’s Learning Journeys. Support children individually and in small groups to achieve agreed outcomes. Contribute to the implementation of individual plans, including supporting children with SEND. Prepare, maintain and organise classroom resources and learning environments, including outdoor provision.
- Assessment and Progress: Observe and record children’s engagement, achievements and next steps. Provide clear feedback to the class teacher/SENCo to support accurate monitoring of progress. Support effective record keeping and contribute to parent/carer communication where required.
- Behaviour, Pastoral Care and Inclusion: Promote positive behaviour and model appropriate interactions. Support children’s social and emotional development to build independence and resilience. Ensure equality of opportunity and inclusive practice at all times. Provide appropriate welfare and personal care support, maintaining dignity and safety.
- Wider Responsibilities: Support playground, lunchtime and supervision duties as required. Assist with first aid, intimate care and administration of medicines in line with training and policy. Contribute positively to the wider life of the school and Trust. Undertake professional development and attend relevant meetings.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
- A Level 3 Early Years qualification.
- NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
- A secure understanding of the EYFS Framework and child development in the Early Years phase.
- Strong observation, communication and teamwork skills.
- A calm, caring and positive approach with the ability to respond sensitively to children’s needs.
- A clear commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and equality.
- Paediatric First Aid qualification is desirable.
Why Join Us
- A supportive and collaborative Trust community.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- A strong safeguarding culture and commitment to inclusive practice.
- Access to a comprehensive employee benefits package, including pension scheme and wellbeing support.
About Maiden Erlegh Trust
Maiden Erlegh Trust is a growing community of schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, working together to deliver the best possible education for every child and young person. With around 800 staff and 5,000 students across eleven schools (primary, secondary, special and alternative provision), we are proud of the diversity that shapes our expertise. We aim high, be inclusive and work together. These values drive our focus on high-quality education for all through collaboration, inclusion and continuous improvement. Through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, colleagues access high-quality professional learning at every stage of their career, supported by mentoring, leadership opportunities and our annual MET Staff Conference. Joining our Trust means being part of a community that invests in people and values expertise, playing a direct role in shaping the lives and outcomes of young people.
Benefits
- Pension Scheme: Generous employer contributions with auto-enrolment into relevant schemes.
- Annual Leave: Generous holiday entitlement, which increases with length of service.
- ME Day: One additional day of leave each year for personal events.
- Professional Development: Maiden Erlegh Institute CPD, annual Conference, and related opportunities.
- Hybrid Working: Flexible arrangements for eligible roles.
- Perkbox: Discounts and wellness resources.
- Wellbeing and Health: Free flu vaccinations and eye tests where eligible. Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aid support.
- Recognition and Community: MET colleagues network and support. Employee Referral Scheme.
Working for our Trust means contributing to something larger by supporting the education and life chances of children and young people every day.
Additional Information
If you believe this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and make a meaningful contribution to the future of our Trust and its schools, please contact recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for an informal discussion. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time. Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. If you are passionate about early years education and want to make a meaningful difference in a nurturing nursery environment, we welcome your application.
Contact Details
Aileen Rae – recruitment@jrs.w-berks.sch.uk
Early Years Teaching Assistant at John Rankin Infant and Nursery School in Newbury employer: Maiden Erlegh Trust
Maiden Erlegh Trust is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth. As the Headteacher PA & School Operations Lead at Birch Hill Primary School, you will enjoy a competitive benefits package, including a pension scheme and generous leave entitlements, all while contributing to a nurturing environment for students and staff alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Teaching Assistant at John Rankin Infant and Nursery School in Newbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research John Rankin Infant and Nursery School, its values, and its community. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to early years education. Think about how you would support children’s learning and development, and be ready to share specific examples from your experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community at Maiden Erlegh Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Teaching Assistant at John Rankin Infant and Nursery School in Newbury
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.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how you can contribute to our Early Years team!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon so we can easily understand your qualifications and experiences.
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 this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Maiden Erlegh Trust
✨Know Your EYFS Framework
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework. Familiarise yourself with its key principles and how they apply to supporting children's learning and development. This will show your commitment to providing high-quality early years provision.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
During the interview, highlight your strong observation and communication skills. Be ready to discuss how you've effectively interacted with children, parents, and colleagues in previous roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to support children's social and emotional development.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your approach to behaviour management and inclusion. Think about how you would handle various situations, such as supporting a child with SEND or promoting positive behaviour in the classroom. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident.
✨Emphasise Your Teamwork Experience
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll be working closely with teaching staff and other professionals. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a team environment, whether in a school setting or elsewhere. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute positively to the wider life of the school.
