Nursery Teaching Assistant - Full-time/Part-time

Folkestone St Mary's CEP Academy, Folkestone

• Ref:KCC886-3349-197S
• Posted:30/01/2026
• Pay:KSB
• Start Date:Immediate
• App Close Date:20/02/2026 at 12:00
• Interviews:WB 23rd February

Advert

We are seeking a caring, enthusiastic and committed Nursery Teaching Assistant to join our vibrant Early Years team. This part‑time role is for 18 hours per week, but there may be the potential for additional hours or full‑time work for the right candidate, depending on staffing needs across the school.

This is an exciting time to join St Mary’s. Following our recent Ofsted inspection, our Nursery provision was highlighted as a real strength. Inspectors praised our high‑quality learning environment, warm relationships between staff and children, and the strong foundations our Early Years team builds for the rest of the school. You will be part of a setting already recognised for excellence and about to benefit from further investment and refurbishment.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a full and relevant Early Years qualification (Level 2 or above), enabling them to be included in our nursery staffing ratios
• Builds warm, caring relationships with children aged 2–4
• Is enthusiastic, reliable and a strong team player
• Understands the importance of high‑quality play‑based learning
• Can support children’s personal development, language and independence
• Is committed to safeguarding and inclusion

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting children’s learning and engagement in continuous provision
• Assisting with personal care, routines and the day‑to‑day running of the nursery
• Delivering high‑quality interactions that extend children’s thinking and language
• Working with the Nursery Manager and team to maintain a safe, nurturing environment
• Supporting assessment by observing and contributing to children’s learning journeys

We can offer you:

• A caring, supportive and forward‑thinking school community
• A nursery praised by Ofsted for its positive climate and high expectations
• Pupils who are happy, curious and eager to learn
• A leadership team committed to staff wellbeing and professional growth
• Opportunities for further training in Early Years practice
• The possibility of additional hours or full‑time work depending on school needs

How to Apply

To apply, please complete the Kent‑Teach application form via the link on this page. Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and encouraged - please contact the school office on 01303 251390 to arrange an appointment.

Safeguarding Statement

St Mary’s Primary School & Nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.

Information about the school

St Mary’s is a two‑form entry Church of England primary in the heart of coastal Folkestone, known for its warm welcome, high expectations and inclusive ethos. Set within extensive grounds - with Forest School, a pond area and well‑equipped EYFS outdoor learning spaces - our curriculum is rich, ambitious and alive with real experiences.

We invest in high‑quality adult–child interactions in EYFS and strong classroom practice across the school. Pupils benefit from a wide range of enrichment: specialist clubs in the arts and sport, swimming for all KS2, educational visits linked to topics, and a local sports partnership. Pastoral support is proactive and joined‑up, with close work between our Pastoral Lead, SENCo and external agencies.

We’re a Single Academy Trust that values collaboration, professional growth and honest, impact‑focused coaching - so every child, including those with SEND, can thrive.

Please note: We reserve the right to close or withdraw this advert at any time should a suitable candidate be identified or circumstances change.

Job Contact Information

• Name:Richard Paez, Headteacher
• Address:Warren Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 6QH
• Telephone: (01303) 251390
• Email: office@st-marys-folkestone.kent.sch.uk

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• Nursery TA Job Description & Person Specification