Early Years Teaching Assistant – January 2027 Start

Location: DL1 Area, Darlington
Job Type: Full Time / Part Time
Start Date: January 2027

About the Role

Working in partnership with local schools and early years settings, Vision for Education is looking to recruit a dedicated, enthusiastic and qualified Early Years Teaching Assistant for opportunities within the DL1 area of Darlington, starting in January 2027.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and passionate Early Years practitioner who is committed to supporting young children's learning, development and wellbeing during the important early stages of their education.

The successful candidate will have a Level 3 qualification in Early Years or Childcare, alongside a recognised specific Early Years qualification, and experience working with children within an early years setting.

You will play an important role in supporting children's learning and development, helping to create a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to develop their confidence, independence and social skills.

Working closely with teachers and other early years practitioners, you will support children through play-based learning, planned activities and everyday routines, ensuring their individual needs are met.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of engaging and age-appropriate learning activities in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

• Support children's learning and development through structured activities and play-based experiences.

• Help create a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment where children feel happy, secure and confident.

• Support children's communication, language, physical, emotional and social development.

• Encourage children's independence, creativity and curiosity through purposeful play.

• Work with individuals and small groups to support learning and development.

• Observe children's progress and contribute to assessments and learning records.

• Support the development of children's early literacy and numeracy skills.

• Promote positive behaviour and encourage children to develop appropriate social skills.

• Support daily routines, including mealtimes, toileting and personal care where required.

• Work collaboratively with teachers, Early Years practitioners and the wider school team.

• Build positive relationships with children, parents, carers and colleagues.

• Follow safeguarding, health and safety and child protection procedures at all times.

• Ensure all children are treated with kindness, respect and understanding.

What We're Looking For

• A minimum Level 3 qualification in Early Years, Childcare or a relevant equivalent qualification.

• A recognised specific Early Years qualification relevant to working within an EYFS setting.

• Previous experience working with children in an Early Years, nursery or primary school environment.

• A good understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

• Knowledge of child development and the importance of play-based learning.

• The ability to support children's communication, language, social and emotional development.

• A caring, patient and nurturing approach.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• The ability to work effectively as part of a team and use initiative when required.

• A genuine passion for supporting young children's learning and development.

• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

• Availability to commence work in January 2027.

What We Offer

As a valued member of the Vision for Education team, you will benefit from:

• Competitive daily rates, paid weekly through our in-house payroll team using the PAYE system.

• A Guaranteed Pay Scheme, subject to availability and qualifying criteria.

• Pension contributions, subject to a qualifying period.

• Social and networking events.

• FREE training and professional development opportunities.

• Full compliance with the Agency Workers Regulations (AWR).

• Access to a dedicated consultant who will provide ongoing support throughout your placement.

About Us

Vision for Education is a market-leading education supply agency committed to the learning and development of young people. With branches across the country, we are an employer of choice for high-quality primary, secondary and SEND teaching and support staff.

We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Vision for Education is committed to safeguarding children and young people. All registered staff will undertake thorough interviewing and referencing checks and must hold, or be prepared to undergo, an Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service.

How to Apply

If you are a qualified, enthusiastic and dedicated Early Years Teaching Assistant with a Level 3 Early Years qualification and relevant early years experience, looking for an opportunity in the DL1 area of Darlington from January 2027, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today via this website, or for more information about this role and other opportunities, contact our Teesside Primary team on 01642 243843 or email teesside@visionforeducation.co.uk.

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