Early Years/KS1 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/KS1 Teaching Assistant to join our fantastic team.About Cognita:Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 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:Our Little Downsend Schools are happy, caring, and energetic environments where every child is encouraged to reach their full potential and develop a lifelong passion for learning. We are proud of our dedicated and well-qualified team who are committed to providing the very best educational experience for each pupil.We are currently seeking a Teaching Assistant to join our supportive community. This role plays a key part in promoting the education, welfare, and personal care of our pupils, in line with the aims and values of Downsend School and Little Downsend. Working closely with the Head of Little Downsend/Head of School, colleagues, parents, and pupils, you will help create a nurturing and inspiring learning environment. Duties include supporting classroom activities, assisting with pastoral care and safeguarding, supervising at lunchtimes and break times, and contributing to the wider life of the school through events and staff development opportunities. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is enthusiastic, caring, and eager to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners.This is a permanent, part-time role needed 28 hours per week plus 2 hours extended day during term time.To view the Role Profile, please click here .Who We Are Looking For:We are looking for a caring, enthusiastic, and dedicated individual with a Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education and Care (such as the NCFE CACHE Diploma or equivalent), along with GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a school setting and a strong understanding of child development and how children learn and grow. A commitment to providing high-quality childcare and early learning is essential, as is a positive and inclusive approach when working with both children and colleagues. You should be confident in supervising children, supporting the class teacher in achieving learning objectives, and maintaining excellent standards of behaviour in line with school policies. A sound knowledge of safeguarding procedures and a genuine passion for nurturing each child's potential will be key to success in this role.Benefits at Cognita:Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experienceEnrolment in our company's Pension SchemeFree lunch provided during Term TimeSchool holidays and public holidaysFree parking on site (subject to availability)School fee discountExclusive third-party discountsOngoing professional developmentHow to Apply:Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: Sunday 7th December 2025Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.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.