Early Years Teaching Assistant, Wakefield

Early Years Teaching Assistant / Nursery Practitioner / Nursery Nurse

Are you passionate about supporting young children during the most important stages of their development?

We are looking for caring, enthusiastic, and dedicated Early Years professionals to join our supply team, working across a variety of primary schools and nurseries throughout Wakefield and the surrounding areas. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced Early Years practitioners seeking flexible work within welcoming and supportive educational settings.

As an Early Years Teaching Assistant or Nursery Practitioner, you will play a key role in creating a positive learning environment where children can develop confidence, curiosity, and independence through engaging play-based learning experiences.

The Role:
Working alongside teachers and Early Years professionals, you will support children's learning, development, and wellbeing within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). You may work with whole classes, small groups, or individual children, helping to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive.

Responsibilities:

• Supporting the delivery of engaging and age-appropriate learning activities.
• Encouraging children's social, emotional, and educational development.
• Building positive relationships with children, staff, and parents.
• Supporting children's personal care needs where required.
• Preparing learning resources and helping to maintain a safe and stimulating environment.
• Promoting positive behaviour and inclusion.
• Following safeguarding, health and safety, and school policies at all times.

Requirements:

• Previous experience working within an Early Years setting, nursery, or primary school.
• Level 2 or Level 3 Early Years or Teaching Assistant qualification.
• Applicants must hold a UK qualification recognised by the Department for Education (DfE) as full and relevant for Early Years practice and EYFS staffing ratios.
• A confident and proactive approach to supporting children's learning and development.
• Ability to engage children through play-based learning and build positive relationships quickly.
• Confidence leading small group activities and supporting whole-class learning when required.
• A positive attitude, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• A genuine passion for supporting children during the early stages of their education.
• Availability to work full-time and a commitment to long-term placements where required.
• A flexible and reliable approach to work, including punctuality and professionalism.
• Ability to provide recent professional references covering relevant childcare, education, or employment experience.
• An enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and child protection procedures.

What We Offer:

• Competitive rates of pay.
• Opportunities to gain experience across a range of Early Years settings.
• A dedicated consultant providing ongoing support and guidance.
• A friendly and supportive team committed to helping you find the right placements.
• The opportunity to make a positive impact on young children's learning and development.

If you would like to be considered for this role, click 'Apply Now' or contact our Primary Team at our Leeds office on 0113 390 1000 for further information.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
We also offer a Recommend a Friend Scheme and Re-registration Bonus.
  
Policies, including our Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy, can be found on our website.

Academic Appointments Limited acts as an employment agency and employment business. Supporting schools and education professionals across Yorkshire for over 20 years.