Early Years Assistant (fixed-term contract to 19th August 2026)

Package Description

The 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 Scheme
• Access to onsite gym
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee 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 retailers
• Fee discount
• A three course lunch is provided during term time

The Role

We are seeking a kind, caring, and suitably qualified Early Years Assistant to join the Nursery team at The Edinburgh Academy Junior School and Nursery. This role will commence upon confirmation of PVG Scheme membership and is fixed-term until 19^th August 2026.

During term time, you will support the day-to-day operations of the Nursery, working closely with colleagues to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment. During school holidays, you will work with our Wraparound Care Holiday Club team, helping to deliver engaging activities and ensuring a high standard of care for our children.

This is a full-year position (not term-time only), working 21 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 09:00 –13:30, with a 15-minute unpaid break each day. Annual leave will be agreed in advance with the Head of Nursery and the Head of Wraparound Care & Activities. Additional hours may be available within the Wraparound Care Team.

We will review applications and hold interviews as they are received, and reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is appointed. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Main Responsibilities

The 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, snack and lunch routines and other general early years activities 
• Assist with preparation of resources
• 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 weathers
• Take responsibility for the weekly laundry within the Nursery
• Assist children at snack and lunch service and take responsibility for ensuring individual dietary requirements are strictly adhered to

The Ideal Candidate

• Will 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 years
• Will 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 written
• Will have good planning and organisational skills
• Will have excellent interpersonal and team working skills
• Will have experience of working with young children

About the school/organisation

The 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.