About us
YOU MUST APPLY AT www.orwellpark.co.uk/vacancies USING OUR APPLICATION FORM. NO CVs or OTHER APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED.
£14.04 per hour including holiday pay (equivalent to £12ph without holiday pay).
Orwell Park is a co-educational prep school for day pupils and boarders. The outstanding beauty of the grounds and historic buildings contribute to an inspiring experience, which combines the legacy and traditions of the past with the dynamism and energy of the present and the future. High expectations, and learning strategies tailored to the individual child, lead to high levels of attainment.
Are you passionate about working with young children and helping them thrive in a nurturing, educational environment? We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Nursery Assistant to join our team at Orwell Park School, supporting children aged 2 to 5 in our nursery. As part of our team, you’ll assist in delivering engaging activities aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, fostering children’s learning and development through play. You will play an active role in ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of the children, while supporting their individual needs, including personal care and behaviour management.
Closing date for applications: Monday, 30th September 2024
Interviews likely in w/c 7th October
We reserve the right to interview suitable candidates as they apply and if successful close the interview process early. Post available for an immediate start, 32 weeks per annum. Hours per week negotiable depending on availability. Pay is £12 per hour (£14.04 including holiday pay).
Further details including an application form may be downloaded from the website (www.orwellpark.co.uk).
Orwell Park is committed to safeguarding children and all successful applicants are required to complete Disclosure Application Forms, which means providing criminal conviction information.
Orwell Park School, Nacton, Ipswich, IP10 0ER
Job Purpose:

• To support the delivery of high-quality early years education and care for children aged 2 to 5 in the nursery attached to Orwell Park School. The Nursery Assistant will work closely with the Nursery Lead and other staff to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that promotes children's development and learning in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

Key Responsibilities:
Childcare & Education:

• Assist in the planning and implementation of engaging and age-appropriate activities in line with the EYFS framework.
• Support children's learning and development through play and structured activities, ensuring a balanced approach to physical, emotional, and intellectual growth.
• Observe and record children’s progress, reporting to the Nursery Manager and parents as required.
• Support individual needs of children, including those with special educational needs (SEN) or disabilities.

Health, Safety & Well-being:

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children, following safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Support children with personal care routines (e.g., toileting, hygiene) as required.
• Ensure the cleanliness and maintenance of play areas, equipment, and resources.
• Monitor children’s well-being, identifying and responding to any concerns in a timely manner.

Teamwork & Collaboration:

• Work as part of a team, contributing ideas for activities and learning opportunities.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, parents, and external professionals where necessary.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and development activities to continually improve practice.

Behaviour Management:

• Help maintain a positive and supportive atmosphere in the nursery, encouraging appropriate behaviour in line with the nursery’s policies.
• Foster children’s independence, self-regulation, and positive social interactions.

Person Specification:
Qualifications:

• Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education and Childcare (e.g., NVQ, CACHE, or equivalent).
• Paediatric First Aid qualification (or willingness to obtain).
• Safeguarding training (desirable).

Experience:

• Experience working with children in a nursery or early years setting.
• Understanding of the EYFS framework and its application in a nursery environment.
• Experience supporting children with additional needs (desirable).

Skills & Attributes:

• Excellent communication skills with children, parents, and staff.
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently when required.
• A caring, patient, and enthusiastic attitude towards working with young children.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

Other Requirements:

• Enhanced DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) or willingness to undergo one.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and training.

The post holder’s responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons for whom he/she is responsible or with whom he/she comes into contact will be to adhere to and ensure compliance with the School’s Safeguarding Policy at all times. If in the course of carrying out the duties of the post the post holder becomes aware of any actual or potential risks to the safety or welfare of children in the School, he/she must report any concerns to the School’s DSL (Deputy Head Pastoral) or to the Headmaster.
---
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £14.04 per hour
Expected hours: 20 – 45 per week
Benefits:

• Company pension
• Discounted or free food
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 30/09/2024
Expected start date: 01/11/2024