Pre-School Assistant – Pashley Down Pre-School; Pashley Down Infant School

Pre-School Assistant – Pashley Down Pre-School (Pashley Down Infant School)

East Sussex County Council is looking for a dedicated Pre‑School Assistant to support children aged 0-5 in our woodland‑rich, play‑based Pre‑School setting.

Hours of work: 37 hours per week
Working pattern:
Full‑time, Part‑time, Term‑time only (39 weeks per year + 13 weeks annual leave, increasing after 5 years of continuous service) (Salary pro‑rata for part‑time/term‑time)

Contract:

Fixed‑term, 1 year

• Support children’s learning, play and emotional development
• Act as a key person, forming strong relationships with families
• Contribute to inclusive practice and responsive provision
• Help deliver rich indoor and outdoor experiences, including woodland learning and interaction with our animals
• Lead or contribute to specialist areas – SEND or 2‑year‑olds – depending on skills and interest
• Maintain high safeguarding standards and support daily routines

You are dependable, reflective and driven by children’s wellbeing. You understand how powerful early relationships are — and you know that inclusion, responsiveness and equity are non‑negotiables. Whether you hold early years qualifications or bring genuine experience and a willingness to learn, you know how to make children feel valued.

• Level 2 or 3 qualification in early years is preferred.
• Unqualified but experienced applicants will be considered if they are ready to train with us – we grow talent.

• A welcoming team with strong values
• A setting with real outdoor learning, community spirit and meaningful experiences
• Professional development, mentoring and pathways for SEND leadership or early years specialism
• A role with potential to become permanent
• The chance to help create a pre‑school that children and families feel proud of

This post is covered by the Childcare Disqualification Regulations 2018. Applicants must ensure they are not disqualified under the 2018 Regulations and will complete a self‑declaration form as part of the pre‑employment checks. If a preferred candidate is found to be disqualified, the offer of employment will be subject to an Ofsted waiver.

All staff will be expected to hold or be willing to obtain an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with Disclosure & Barring Services. For further information, visit

Pashley Down Infant School
Beechy Ave, Eastbourne BN20 8NX
Phone: 01323 730719
Email: of
Website:

Please note, we do not accept CVs.

Interview date: 12th & 13th February 2026

Closing date: 5th February 2026

Inclusion matters. We are building a setting where every child feels safe, seen, welcomed and understood. One of these roles will include being our SEND lead within the pre‑school, and another will become our 2‑year‑old champion – roles suited to people who bring insight, instinct and a commitment to making provision exceptional for all children.