We are seeking two kind, caring and suitably qualified Early Years Assistants to work as part of the Nursery team for The Edinburgh Academy Junior School and Nursery. During term-time, our Early Years Assistants provide support and assistance in the day-to-day operations of the Nursery. During the holidays, the post works with our Wraparound Care Holiday Club team to provide a fun, safe, nurturing environment for our children. Both posts are fixed term contracts for one year. Post 1 is 21 hours (09:00 – 13:30 Monday to Friday with 15mins unpaid break each day) and could be term-time only or full year Post 2 is 18.5 hours (09:30 – 13:30 Monday to Friday with 15mins unpaid break each day) and is a full year post to include Holiday Club Please specify if you are applying for one post or both posts. Please note we aim to interview week commencing 2nd June 2025 and reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. Package DescriptionThe school prides itself on its warm and welcoming community, inclusive of all staff. Our teaching staff work alongside the operational teams to ensure the smooth running of the school. We value the contribution of all team members. Through involvement in the co-curricular programme all those who work with us can bring their passions to work. Developing our talent is important to us. Access to training and professional development is available and encouraged.Our reward package includes:Generous Defined Contribution Pension SchemeAccess to onsite gymEmployee Assistance ProgrammeEmployee Benefits Programme, including discounted access to health insurance, financial well-being products, cycle to work and electric car schemes as well as discounts to a number of major retailersFee discountA three course lunch is provided during term timeMain ResponsibilitiesThe following makes up the key elements of the job, but this is not an exhaustive list of all tasks:Under the direction and supervision of teaching or nominated staff, support children from age 2-5 years throughout the learning environment Through organised activities, provide support, assistance and encouragement to help each individual child achieve the best learning and development outcomes possible Provide support to teachers, EYPs and children in all learning environments e.g. supporting all aspects of early learning and development including early language, mathematics, health and wellbeing, lunch routines and other general early years activities Assist with preparation of resources and ordering of Nursery snack ensuring hygiene policies are followed Provide help to children in organising their day and to follow instructions Support children to build independence skills and assist children with personal care needs, e.g. toileting, nappy changing, dressing, changing clothes Assist in implementing the Nursery’s positive behaviour policy Work as part of the school/early years setting staff team, ensuring the ongoing health, safety and welfare of the children including bringing any matters concerning child protection to the attention of the relevant staff member in accordance with the school’s policy and procedures Complete administrative elements of child welfare requirements e.g. routine documentation and information dispersal Provide comfort and care for minor accidents, upsets or ailments e.g. cuts and bruises, and report as necessary Participate in appropriate professional staff development opportunities, Inservice days and refresher training as deemed appropriate Set up play equipment in playrooms and outside areas As required, clear and clean rooms and resources with other Nursery staff Supervise and support children within outdoors early years spaces in all weathersTake responsibility for the weekly laundry within the NurseryAssist children at lunch service and take responsibility for ensuring individual dietary requirements are strictly adhered toThe Ideal CandidateWill be registered, or eligible to be registered, with SSSC or equivalent, and hold an SVQ Level 2 Qualification or will work towards gaining one within 3 yearsWill have a good standard of Maths and English to SQA National 5 Level or equivalent, or previous relevant experience Will have good communication skills, both verbal and writtenWill have good planning and organisational skillsWill have excellent interpersonal and team working skillsWill have experience of working with young childrenAbout the school/organisationThe Edinburgh Academy is a fully co-educational school. The School consists of a Senior School, Junior School and a Nursery Department. The School is a member of HMC. The Edinburgh Academy moved to full co-education across the whole school in 2008. The Junior and Senior Schools are on separate sites, both of which have spacious grounds and sports facilities including extensive playing fields, an all-weather sports area, and a large Sports Hall and Centre.
