Job Description

Level 3 EYFS & SEND Teaching Assistant - two posts

St Matthew's Primary and Nursery Academy, Derriford

Contract Term:

Permanent

Hours:

32.5 hours per week, Monday - Friday 8:30am - 3:30pm

Salary:

GradeSC3 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

SEND Role:

The successful candidate will work alongside the Provision Lead, supporting pupils throughout the school day with their learning, communication, social interaction and play skills. You will help to create a calm, structured and nurturing environment where all pupils are supported to experience success and make progress.

We are looking for someone who:

Has previous experience working with pupils with Special Educational Needs

Ideally has experience in a specialist setting or has worked with children with complex needs

Is committed, patient and able to build positive relationships with pupils

Understands the importance of emotional regulation, independence and consistent routines

Works effectively as part of a team and communicates clearly with colleagues

We can offer:

A warm, supportive and collaborative school team

Regular support and guidance from our SENCO and Trust inclusion leads

High-quality professional development and opportunities to extend your skills

A nurturing setting where pupil wellbeing and staff wellbeing are valued

This role is suited to someone who is passionate about inclusion and committed to improving outcomes for children with additional needs. You will be an important part of a provision that makes a significant difference to the children and families we serve.

EYFS role:

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.

Please visit the below link for information on how to apply:

https://www.stchristophersmat.org/work-with-us/current-vacancies

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.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 19,723.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension On-site parking
Work Location: In person