At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young children in their learning and development through engaging activities.
- Company: Join the friendly team at Park Gate Primary School in Southampton.
- Benefits: Ongoing training, professional development, and a rewarding role.
- Other info: Opportunities to develop specialist skills in SEND and Early Years.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives every day.
- Qualifications: Experience with young children and a nurturing approach required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 € per year.
Park Gate Primary School, Northmore Road, Southampton
8.20am to 3.00pm Monday to Friday Term Time (39 weeks to include all Inset days)
Closing Date: 29/05/2026
Job Category: Support
Local Authority: Hampshire
Phase of Education: Primary
Job Introduction
Are you passionate about helping young children thrive in a nurturing and inclusive environment? We are seeking a caring, enthusiastic and committed Early Years Learning Support Assistant (LSA) Level 2 to join our dedicated team at Park Gate Primary School. This is a rewarding opportunity to support children within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), helping them develop socially, emotionally, physically and academically through engaging play-based and structured learning experiences.
About the Role
Working under the guidance of the EYFS Lead, SENCO, Class Teacher or Senior LSA, you will:
- Support children within the classroom and outdoor learning environment
- Deliver engaging play-based learning activities tailored to individual needs
- Encourage communication, creativity, independence and positive social interaction
- Work with individuals and small groups to develop early literacy, numeracy and language skills
- Support children with SEND, including contributing to EHCPs and IEPs
- Promote emotional wellbeing and positive behaviour using supportive and nurturing approaches
- Assist with transitions, routines, snack times and toileting where required
- Provide personal and intimate care respectfully and sensitively in line with school policies
- Observe and record children’s progress to support planning and assessment
- Help maintain a safe, stimulating and inclusive learning environment
The role may also involve supporting children who display dysregulated or challenging behaviour. Full training, including positive handling techniques where appropriate, will be provided.
What We’re Looking For
- Experience working or volunteering with young children in a school, nursery or childcare setting
- Understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and child development
- Good literacy and numeracy skills
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- A patient, flexible and nurturing approach
- Understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities
- Willingness to support personal care needs and undertake relevant training
- NVQ Level 2 in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Childcare or equivalent
- Experience supporting children with SEND
- Knowledge of speech and language strategies, sensory needs or trauma-informed practice
- Paediatric First Aid qualification (or willingness to train)
Why Join Us?
At Park Gate Primary School, we are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where children — and staff — can flourish. We offer:
- A welcoming and collaborative team
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Opportunities to develop specialist SEND and Early Years skills
- A rewarding role making a real difference to children’s lives every day
How to Apply
To request an application pack, please email your request to Mrs Victoria Hughes, Business Manager via email to: v.hughes@parkgate.hants.sch.uk
We look forward to hearing from you!
Park Gate Primary School is committed to safeguarding children and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subjected to Criminal Records Bureau checks along with other relevant employment checks.
EYFS Learning Support Assistant in Southampton employer: Thehambleschool
At Park Gate Primary School, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where both children and staff can thrive. As an Early Years Learning Support Assistant, you will benefit from ongoing professional development, a collaborative team atmosphere, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young learners every day.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EYFS Learning Support Assistant in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education or local schools. Let them know you're on the lookout for an Early Years Learning Support Assistant role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to early years education. This not only boosts your CV but also helps you meet potential employers and showcase your passion for supporting young children.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow schools, educational organisations, and job boards on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Engage with their posts to get noticed and stay updated on job openings.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and genuinely interested in joining our team at Park Gate Primary School.
We think you need these skills to ace EYFS Learning Support Assistant in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young children shine through. We want to see how much you care about helping them thrive in a nurturing environment!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with children, especially in an EYFS setting. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to read and understand. No need for fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thehambleschool
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Understand its principles and how they apply to child development. This will show your passion for nurturing young children and your commitment to their growth.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences working with young children. Whether it’s through volunteering or previous roles, be ready to discuss how you’ve supported children’s learning and development, especially those with SEND.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Learning Support Assistant, communication is key. Think of ways to illustrate your strong communication skills during the interview. You might want to role-play scenarios where you effectively engage with children or collaborate with teachers.
✨Emphasise Your Nurturing Approach
Be prepared to talk about your patient and flexible approach to working with children. Share examples of how you've created a supportive environment, managed challenging behaviour, or promoted emotional wellbeing in your previous roles.