Nursery Assistant

Roles and responsibilities

Responsibilities:

• To work as part of the Nursery Team to deliver high standards of care, child development, and learning for the nursery children in a welcoming, caring, and safe environment.
• To contribute to the Nursery’s highest standards of physical and emotional care, health and safety, and personal and food hygiene at all times.
• To comply with all regulatory requirements, including the EYFS.
• The post holder reports to the Room Leader and works closely with the Nursery Teacher
• The post holder is also accountable to the Principal and Vice Principal
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with children, colleagues, and parents or carers
• To assist in maintaining a stimulating, engaging, and interactive learning environment for all children.
• assist with the delivery of the daily program of purposeful play activities to suit the children’s needs and stages of development, supporting and promoting each child’s learning.
• To guide and monitor children’s progress, provide feedback to the Room Leader on pupil progress, assessing and observing where required.
• To ensure that activities are carried out safely and advise the Room Leader of any concerns over children, equipment, etc.
• Be proactive in supporting classroom routines, so children are continually supported.
• To assist in meeting the care needs of the children, such as feeding, sleeping, and nappy changes.
• Working creatively with the children within the Nursery, as instructed by the Room Leader.
• To be involved in positive interactions with the children by supporting or providing stimulating activities that respond to their interests and developmental needs.
• Ensure effective working practice is followed, including safeguarding and adhering to all School policies and procedures.
• Assist with the children’s weaning and eating needs, encouraging children to eat and drink when required. Report children’s daily eating and toileting habits to the Room Leader and/or Nursery Teacher.
• Ensuring effective supervision at mealtimes and that all dietary requirements are adhered to for children within your room.
• Ensure an appropriate, safe, and secure learning environment, e.g., locking gates, spillage of water, monitoring the condition of toys/equipment, and reporting any concerns to the Room Leader.
• Always maintain a clean and safe environment both inside and outside.
• Working within the School’s Health and Safety Policy to ensure a safe environment for the children, their parents and carers, the nursery team, and any visitors to the Nursery.
• To be sensitive to the needs of all children.
• Promote positive values, attitudes, and good behavior of children.
• Promote positive professional relationships with the Nursery team. • Work as part of the whole Nursery Team and take on additional responsibilities as required.
• Be available to work in any area of the Nursery, undertaking the care and supervision of the children and ensuring its smooth running.
• To carry out playtime and lunchtime duties, including helping children with outdoor clothing.
• To help with the set-up and tidying up of daily activities and resources, including domestic tasks such as preparing snacks, cleansing of equipment and laundry, etc.
• To be able to oversee individuals and small groups as directed. • To complete simple administrative tasks.
• Reappraising professional performance, keeping up to date with EYFS requirements & best practices.
• Engaging actively in the performance review
• Undertake additional duties as required by the Principal or Vice Principal as appropriate. Ew process and participate in CPD opportunities.
• Attend meetings and INSET, as required.
• Ensure confidentiality is maintained in the nursery.

Desired candidate profile

A nursery assistant plays a crucial role in supporting early childhood education and care. Key skills and qualities include:

1. Child Development Knowledge: Understanding of the developmental stages of young children and the ability to support their physical, emotional, and social growth.

2. Patience and Empathy: Ability to be patient and understanding with young children, providing a nurturing environment.

3. Communication Skills: Strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills to interact effectively with children, parents, and colleagues.

4. Creativity: Ability to plan and implement engaging activities that stimulate learning and creativity, such as arts and crafts, storytelling, and play.

5. Teamwork: Collaboration with teachers and other staff to create a supportive learning environment.

6. Observation Skills: Keen observation skills to assess children’s progress and identify any concerns regarding their development or behavior.

7. Organizational Skills: Ability to manage time effectively, keeping the nursery environment organized and safe.

8. Basic First Aid: Knowledge of first aid and emergency procedures to ensure the safety of children.

9. Flexibility and Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to changing circumstances and the varying needs of children.

10. Positive Attitude: Maintaining a cheerful and positive demeanor to create an inviting and supportive atmosphere.