Early Years Teaching Assistant

About the School - Little Downsend, Leatherhead
Little Downsend Leatherhead, located just a 5 minute walk from the Junior and Senior School, possesses its own special character, with large bright, well equipped classrooms, brimming with interactive activities. Little Downsend Leatherhead has the largest outdoor area of the three schools, with over an acre of garden space including playgrounds, astro turfed sports area and a magnificent forest school zone.

At each of our Little Downsend schools, we instil the same nurture, innovation, love of life, dynamic energy and high standards, supported by experienced and passionate teachers.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced?Early Years Teaching Assistant to join our fantastic team. Fixed term contract (April - July 2025) 22.5 hours a week, 3 days during term-time.

About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, 'Thrive in a rapidly evolving world'.

About the role
As an Early Years Teaching Assistant at Little Downsend, you will play a vital role in fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment for our young learners. You will work closely with the Head of Little Downsend and collaborate with fellow educators to promote the education, welfare, and personal care of pupils. Your responsibilities will include helping to plan and deliver engaging lessons, maintaining discipline, and ensuring the safety and well-being of children both in and out of the classroom. You will also participate in school events, meetings, and training sessions, encouraging strong relationships with pupils, parents, and staff.



Who we are looking for:
We are seeking a dynamic and compassionate individual who possesses a deep understanding of child development and the ways children learn. You should have qualifications such as the NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Educator) or an equivalent L3 qualification, alongside GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths. Experience working in a school setting is essential, within an independent school context is desirable.

Benefits at Cognita
*Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
*Free lunch provided during Term Time
*School holidays and public holidays
*Free parking on site (subject to availability)
*School fee discount
*Exclusive third-party discounts
*Professional Development

How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: 13th April 2025.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

EARLY APPLICATIONS ARE ENCOURAGED, WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO INTERVIEW AND APPOINT PRIOR TO CLOSING DATE FOR THE RIGHT APPLICANT.