The details of this role are as follows:
Working hours: 25 hours a week 8.00am – 12.45pm Mon- Thurs
Annual leave: School Holidays
Contract type: Part time temporary
Salary: £12,611 (FTE £24,293)
Dates: Contract ends in July with possibility of extension
If you have any queries or need further information about the position, please do not hesitate to contact the People and Culture team by email HR.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Early Childhood Assistant plays a versatile role by providing support in the Early Childhood Setting. The role requires flexibility, a nurturing demeanour, and a deep understanding of Steiner Waldorf principles. Candidates must have established experience of Steiner Waldorf Early Years Education, the EYFS, and the ethos and pedagogy that underpins practice in a Steiner Early Childhood setting.
Key Responsibilities
Main Responsibilities & Duties:
Support the Group Leader in their work and in maintaining the setting ethos and atmosphere including but not limited to:
- Help with the preparation of the setting (inside and out) and materials for the activities of each day.
- Support children while maintaining a child’s dignity and autonomy in toileting, changing and during meal times.
- Be prepared to help with the preparation of festivals.
- Be engaged with the content of ring time and support the listening skills at story time.
- Take care of children needing comfort.
- Attend to individual children’s needs as and when necessary and help maintain the rhythm.
- Prepare the morning snack.
- Be a positive role model for the children to imitate, whilst involved in craft and domestic activities.
- Take responsibility for the children in the indoor and outdoor environment as and when necessary.
- Help to clean, mend, and make equipment and maintain areas used by the setting, which include the room, cloakroom, toilets and garden.
- Be able to cope with the pressures of a physically demanding job
- Be able to speak, write and speak in English to a high standard
- Uphold Early Childhood policies, curriculum guidelines and Governmental/Childrens’ Services policies and guidelines.
- Be prepared to support the running of the Early Childhood
- Be eligible for registration under the Children’s Act 1989.
- Be familiar with the EYFS regulations
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will possess inner flexibility, adapting to various roles with ease and maintaining resilience in handling changes. A genuine passion for working with children is essential, showing dedication to their growth and a compassionate approach.
Candidates should have a Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Qualification at Level 3 or above, though this is desirable. An Early Years qualification at Level 3 or above is required, ensuring knowledge of early childhood development.
Eligibility for registration under the Children’s Act 1980 is necessary, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and a commitment to safeguarding children. Familiarity with EYFS regulations is important, integrating these principles within the Steiner Waldorf framework.
Experience in a Steiner Early Years setting is desirable for practical understanding of Steiner approaches. The candidate must be physically capable, engaging actively with children and occasionally lifting up to 25kg.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required for effective interaction with children, parents, and colleagues. The candidate should be a proactive team player, able to work independently and committed to ongoing professional development in early childhood education.
Michael Hall School values the diversity of its community and aims to have a workforce that reflects this. We therefore encourage applications from all sections of the community.
BENEFITS OF WORKING AT MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL
• Free parking on site
• Staff discount on fees for children
• Bike to work scheme
• Access to discounts at retailers and more through our partnership with Bright HR
Michael Hall School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and expects all staff to share this commitment. A successful application will be dependent upon a satisfactory enhanced DBS check and other safeguarding checks and screening, including references. All staff have a key role to play in identifying concerns early and in providing help for children, and are expected to act in accordance with the School’s Safeguarding & Child Protection Policies which are available on our website.
