Early Years Teacher in York

York Steiner School is seeking two part-time Early Years Class Teachers. There are two roles 0.4 and 0.6FTE on a fixed term contract from 3rd September 2026 to 31st August 2027.

Education and qualifications

• Essential: Experience of working in a Waldorf Kindergarten setting, A level 2 or 3 EYE qualification (minimum) as recognised under the EYFS, good general standard of education.
• Desirable: Steiner Waldorf kindergarten training is preferred but not essential. Candidates must be open to CPD and willing to develop their skills and knowledge in this area.

Person Specification: Attributes/skills required

• Reliable, honest, with a good history of attendance.
• Understand the importance of and respect the need for confidentiality.
• Able to provide evidence of their competency to work with young children.
• Interested in Anthroposophy.
• Organised and responsible.
• Able to work both as part of a close-knit team and on their own initiative.
• Self-motivated, imaginative and creative.
• Flexible and have a positive attitude to work.
• A good communicator, with children, parents and colleagues.
• Able to cope with pressure.
• A personal commitment to safeguarding and keeping children safe.

Duties and responsibilities

• Providing a well-balanced programme of activities for the children according to the Steiner Waldorf curriculum and the Early Years Foundation Stage, following school planning proformas.
• The care, health and safety of the children during their time at school.
• Keeping written records of children’s progress including planning, observing, reviewing in keeping with current practice in the department.
• Liaising with the SENDCO regarding any child with SEN.
• Liaising with parents, including interviews, home visits and parents evenings.
• Providing written observations and assessments that feed into planning and contribute to a detailed end of year report.
• Building a good relationship with the assistant to ensure their role in the classroom is effective and supportive.
• Liaising with colleagues in the Early Years Department, including attending the weekly meeting from 2–4pm on Thursdays and other meetings where necessary.
• Working with colleagues in the whole school, including the office, ensuring that they are informed of relevant issues, preferably by attending the weekly staff meeting.
• Willing to take on additional roles and responsibilities within the EY department, according to individual experience and expertise.
• Interviewing new families.
• Overseeing the decoration and maintenance of the Kindergarten and the equipment therein.
• Monitoring and keeping to agreed budgets.
• Attending training where it is relevant.
• Willing to work with a mentor and provide mentoring to colleagues including parent and child group leaders when required.
• Taking part in the appraisal of their own work performance and assisting in the mentoring of colleagues.
• Covering for absent colleagues when required.
• Any other duties as and when required.

Management and supervision

The Kindergarten Teacher is responsible to the Early Years Lead and through them to the School Leadership Group, Headteacher and the Board of Trustees. York Steiner School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and passing an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check.

York Steiner School is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to ensuring that every job applicant or employee receives equal treatment irrespective of sex, marital status, age, race, nationality, disability, sexuality or religious belief.