EYFS Teaching Assistant - Primary School (Dagenham, East...

Location: Dagenham, East London
Role: EYFS Teaching Assistant
Contract Type: Full-Time | Term-Time Only
Start Date: ASAP or Next Term
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

School Overview

This welcoming and community-focused primary school in Dagenham is committed to delivering a high-quality Early Years Foundation Stage provision where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn. The school serves a diverse local community and places strong emphasis on early communication, emotional development, and school readiness. Early intervention and inclusive practice are central to the school’s ethos, ensuring that all children, regardless of background or need, are supported to achieve their potential.

The EYFS setting is bright, engaging, and well-resourced, with strong indoor and outdoor learning environments designed to encourage exploration, independence, and positive relationships. The leadership team values Teaching Assistants as key members of the EYFS team and provides consistent support, training, and opportunities for progression.

Due to growing pupil numbers and an increase in additional needs within Early Years, the school is now seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic EYFS Teaching Assistant to join their team.

Role Purpose

The EYFS Teaching Assistant will work within Nursery and Reception classes, supporting children aged 3–5 with their learning, development, and wellbeing. You will support teacher-led activities, child-initiated play, and targeted interventions to help children develop early literacy, numeracy, communication, and social skills.

A key element of the role will involve supporting children with SEN, speech and language delays, EAL, and social or emotional needs , ensuring inclusive access to learning and positive early school experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Support learning through play-based and structured EYFS activities

• Work one-to-one and in small groups with children requiring additional support

• Support children with SEN, including autism, ADHD, and developmental delays

• Assist with phonics, early reading, mark-making, and number recognition

• Encourage positive behaviour, emotional regulation, and independence

• Support classroom routines including transitions, snack time, and tidy-up

• Assist with outdoor learning and physical development activities

• Observe, record, and contribute to assessments of children’s progress

• Work closely with the EYFS team, SENCO, and external professionals

• Support children with personal care needs in line with school policies

• Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health, and safety

The Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will be caring, patient, and passionate about early childhood education. You will understand the importance of consistency, routine, and emotional security in EYFS settings.

You should demonstrate:

• Experience working in EYFS, Nursery, or early years environments

• Understanding of the EYFS framework and child development

• Experience or strong interest in supporting SEN and inclusion

• A calm, nurturing, and proactive approach

• Strong communication and teamwork skills

• Flexibility and resilience in a busy classroom

Training and Career Progression

The school offers structured induction and ongoing CPD, including:

• EYFS best practice and curriculum development

• SEN and inclusive education strategies

• Behaviour support and emotional wellbeing

• Safeguarding and child protection

There are clear pathways into SEN TA roles, HLTA positions, and teacher training for committed staff.

What the School Offers

• Supportive leadership and an experienced EYFS team

• Well-resourced indoor and outdoor learning environments

• Strong focus on early intervention and inclusion

• Ongoing professional development

• A rewarding role with meaningful impact on children’s lives

Safeguarding

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.