Teaching Assistant

Keyham Barton Catholic Primary School is a welcoming and inclusive school with a strong Catholic ethos. Our mission is to support every child to flourish academically, socially, and spiritually within a warm, family‑feeling environment. The EYFS team plays a key role in laying the foundation for children’s lifelong learning, supporting their early social, emotional, physical and academic development.

Purpose of the Role

To work under the direction of the Class Teacher and within the EYFS team to provide high‑quality support for children’s learning and development in the Foundation Stage. You will help to create a nurturing, engaging and inclusive environment that enables children to make excellent progress and enjoy their first experience of school.

Key Responsibilities

• Support children’s learning in line with the EYFS Framework: Personal, Social & Emotional Development; Communication & Language; Physical Development; Literacy; Mathematics; Understanding the World; Expressive Arts & Design.

• Work with individuals, small groups and whole class activities as directed by the teacher to reinforce learning and support understanding.

• Help set up and maintain effective continuous provision areas (indoor and outdoor) ensuring resources are organised, safe and stimulating.

• Monitor and track children’s progress by observing, recording and feeding back information to the Class Teacher; contributing to assessment processes.

• Provide pastoral care and help foster positive relationships, well‑being and social skills among children.

• Support children with additional needs (including SEN, EAL) as required, adapting activities and resources to suit their learning and development.

• Assist with classroom management, behaviour support and positive reinforcement in line with school policies.

• Support children’s independence with self‑care routines (e.g., toileting, changing, snack time) as appropriate, modelling high standards of care and hygiene.

• Work collaboratively with the EYFS Lead, Class Teacher, other TAs, parents/carers and other professionals to help deliver holistic support for children.

• Supervise children safely during playtimes, lunchtimes, transitions and any off‑site activities (if required).

• Participate in staff meetings, training and professional development as required; reflect on practice to contribute to continuous improvement.

• Adhere to and actively promote the school’s values, Catholic ethos, safeguarding policies and health & safety procedures.

Person Specification

Essential:

• A caring, positive, enthusiastic attitude towards supporting young children’s development.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with children, staff and parents.

• Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team.

• Understanding of how young children learn and develop, ideally in an EYFS or early years setting.

• Good literacy and numeracy skills (GCSE Grade C/4 or equivalent in English and Maths desirable).

• Willingness to engage in ongoing professional development.

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Desirable:

• A Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Childcare, Education or a relevant area (or willingness to work towards).

• Prior experience as a Teaching Assistant or similar role in a primary/EYFS setting.

• Familiarity with the EYFS Framework and experience of supporting continuous provision.

• Experience of supporting children with SEN or EAL.

• Awareness of behaviour management strategies appropriate to early years.

If you are a passionate and dedicated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, we want to hear from you!

Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to [roxanne.mcgill@supplyregister.uk]

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.