SPECIAL SCHOOL EARLY YEARS ASSISTANT

About the school

John Chilton School is a successful school for pupils who have complex physical, medical and learning difficulties. We are innovative in our approach to educate pupils with a range of cognitive, physical and medical needs (4 to 19 years) in a unique environment. The school is located on two sites and the post holder will be expected to work in the EYFS classes.

The job includes working closely with the teacher to assist in the planning, development and delivery of the curriculum; promoting active learning; organising and maintaining school equipment; supporting a positive learning environment for pupils and assisting pupils with their personal care. In the short term absence of a teacher, to cover all pre prepared activities to provide continuity for the pupils.

We are looking for someone who:

• must have significant experience of working with children or adults with complex and profound additional needs;
• Can form positive and caring relationships with children which motivates them to learn, grow and be confident;

• Shows initiative and the ability to be spontaneous;
• Enjoys planning and leading play- based activities;
• Understands the importance of the outdoor learning;
• Is confident with the EYFS framework and its assessment procedures;
• Is a good team player who is willing to contribute to the ethos and wider community of the school
• Possess excellent subject knowledge of early phonics, reading, writing and numeracy;

How to apply

Application forms and job descriptions can be downloaded from the school website You can also contact the school to request further information by emailing.

At John Chilton School we want our staff team to reflect the rich cultural diversity of the school and local community. We would like to employ staff that help us achieve our ambition of being a proactive anti-racist school, that empowers all our pupils, staff and families, and enables all to achieve and grow.

Candidates are welcome to visit the school. Please contact Andrea Keogh to arrange a suitable date and time.

We are committed to safer recruitment, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS). Further information can be found at:

Candidates who have lived or worked abroad may require an overseas police check and may be asked to provide a good conduct certificate. Further information can be found at

In line with KCSIE 2025 and safer recruitment practices, the school will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates. The online search is part of our safeguarding checks and will seek publicly available information on candidates' suitability to work with children.

It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

Closing date: Monday 9 th February, noon

Interviews: Friday 13 th February 2026

How to apply: An application pack is available from the school website:

Completed application forms to be returned to Andrea Keogh