Early Years Teaching Assistant (Maintained Nursery School)

Job title and organisation: Early Years Teaching Assistant  - Federation of Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools
Salary: L1 - L5 £25,583 - £25,989 FTE (Actual £18,067 - £18,353) 
Hours: Part Time (Term Time Only)
Contract: Permanent
Location: Crigglestone & The Castle Nursery Schools, Wakefield
Closing Date: Tuesday 3 February 2026 at 12 noon

Working Pattern: 31.25 hours (8.45 - 15.30 Mon - Fri)

Start Date: ASAP

Join our Inspiring Early Years Team!

Due to increased numbers of children joining our federation, we are expanding our team! The Federation of Crigglestone Nursery School and The Castle Nursery School is looking for four passionate and dedicated Early Years Teaching Assistants to join our creative, nurturing, and forward-thinking community.

  • The roles will initially be based at Crigglestone Nursery School in our Preschool Room (2–3 years)

About Us

As proud Curiosity Approach settings, we believe every child deserves an environment that sparks awe, wonder, and imagination. Our schools are places where children become confident, curious learners—“thinkers and doers” of the future.

We celebrate individuality, diversity, and inclusion, with a strong belief that all teaching staff are teachers of SEND. Our goal is to ensure every child’s needs are met so they can thrive and achieve their potential.

Working in a maintained nursery school is both a privilege and a unique opportunity. These schools are very special places at the heart of their communities, with a rich history of excellence in Early Years education. Joining our federation means becoming part of this proud tradition—where innovation, inclusivity and a deep commitment to the early years come together to give children the very best start in life.

What We're Looking For

We’re seeking enthusiastic, motivated and child-centred practitioners who:

  • Hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification (or higher)
  • Hold a Paediatric First Aid qualification (or are willing to undertake)
  • Have experience of working in Early Years
  • Can bring energy, creativity, and warmth into every learning experience
  • Understand and value inclusive practice
  • Believe in the power of play-based learning and can bring the Curiosity Approach to life
  • Are great communicators, reflective team players, and eager to keep learning

What the Role involves

  • Observing, supporting, and celebrating children’s learning journeys
  • Creating stimulating and imaginative opportunities for play and exploration
  • Enabling children to flourish through curiosity-led, child-initiated learning
  • Supporting children’s physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development
  • Prioritising the safety, wellbeing, and happiness of every child
  • Growing professionally through ongoing training and CPD

Why Join Us

By joining our federation, you’ll become part of a warm, caring, and highly skilled team who value collaboration, creativity, and joy in learning. We offer:

  • A truly inclusive ethos where every child and adult is valued
  • The privilege of working in maintained nursery schools - special places that combine tradition, excellence, and innovation
  • A stimulating environment rooted in EYFS principlesand the Curiosity Approach
  • Fantastic CPD opportunities to help you grow in your career
  • The chance to make a lasting difference in children’s lives at a pivotal stage

How to Apply

For further details and an application form please click here

Application forms should be returned to:

Email:  kquinn@crigglestonecastle.wakefield.sch.uk

Post: Crigglestone Nursery School, High Street, Crigglestone, WF4 3EB

Closing Date: Tuesday 3rd February 2026, 12 noon

Interviews: Thursday 12th February 2026

Applications: Email completed application forms to: 📧 kquinn@crigglestonecastle.wakefield.sch.uk

Visits warmly encouraged – come and see curiosity and wonder in action! Please contact us to arrange a visit.

The Federation of Crigglestone and The Castle Nursery Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references. 

The above post is not a Leeds City Council vacancy and has been advertised on behalf of the relevant organisation. To apply please follow their application instructions. 

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