Level 3 EYFS Teaching Assistant
St Matthew’s Primary and Nursery Academy, Derriford
Contract Term: Permanent
Hours: 32.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday 8:30am – 3:30pm
Salary: Grade SC3 NJC points 6-9 Actual starting Salary £19,723 (FTE £25,989)
Term Time only: 39 weeks per annum
Annual Leave: Taken outside of term time and paid pro-rata throughout the year (no annual leave to be taken during term time)
Benefits: Local Government Pension Scheme
Deadline for application: 9am on Tuesday 6th January 2026
Start: ASAP
Interview Date: Thursday 8th January 2026
St. Matthew’s Primary School is seeking a caring, enthusiastic and highly motivated Level 3 Teaching Assistant to join our Early Years Foundation Stage team. This is a key role in our EYFS provision, working within our Reception team to support teaching, learning and play.
We would ideally like to appoint someone with experience of working in the EYFS who understands child development, early communication, and the importance of nurturing routines and positive relationships.
The role includes:
- Supporting teachers in delivering high-quality learning across the EYFS
- Promoting the Characteristics of Effective Learning and learning through play
- Supporting outdoor learning and Forest School activities
- Contributing to a communication-friendly environment
- Working closely with staff to provide a warm, inclusive and stimulating environment for all children
We are looking for someone who:
- Holds a Level 3 qualification in Early Years or equivalent
- Has experience of working with children aged 3–5 (ideally within a school setting)
- Is committed to child-led exploration and learning through play
- Builds positive relationships with pupils, families and colleagues
- Works collaboratively as part of a committed, supportive team
We can offer:
- A friendly, caring and skilled EYFS team working across three classes
- Support and coaching from our EYFS Phase Lead and Trust Early Years specialists
- High-quality professional development and opportunities to grow within a supportive Trust
- A nurturing school community where staff wellbeing and professional learning are valued
If you are passionate about Early Years, enjoy working outdoors, and are committed to giving young children the very best start, we would love to hear from you.
To arrange a tour of the school please contact the school on 01752 395969 or via email on SMPA.office@stcmat.org
Please ensure you refer to the criteria for the role on the person specification in your supporting statement.
To apply for this role please click the 'Apply Now' button at the top of this advert.
If you have any issues applying for this role please contact The People Team via people@stcmat.org
Please note it is our process to apply for references for shortlisted applicants and to complete online searches in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, for all shortlisted applicants. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS Disclosure is required for this post.
Please visit the below website for our Trust policies and our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy:
https://www.stchristophersmat.org/key-information/item/10/trust-policies
Our commitment to EDI
We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Applicants who meet the criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age or veteran status.