Early Years Assistant Teachers

The role

• As an Assistant Teacher, you will work closely with the Lead Teacher to support the learning, care and day-to-day organisation of the classroom.
• This is a hands-on role. You will spend much of your day alongside children: talking, playing, observing, supporting routines and helping them become increasingly confident and independent.
• You will contribute to planning, share observations about children, help maintain purposeful learning environments and play an important role within the classroom team.

Key responsibilities

You will

• Build warm, responsive and respectful relationships with children.
• Support high-quality, play-based learning throughout the day.
• Engage meaningfully in children's play, conversations and investigations.
• Work with individual children and small groups when appropriate.
• Observe children and share useful information about their interests, development and wellbeing with the Lead Teacher.
• Help prepare, organise and maintain inviting indoor and outdoor learning environments.
• Support children's communication, social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.
• Encourage children's independence in play, learning and daily routines.
• Support children to manage emotions, relationships and conflict in a calm and respectful way.
• Support daily care routines, including meals, rest, toileting and personal care where appropriate.
• Prepare resources and help reset and organise the environment throughout the day.
• Support children during transitions, outdoor learning, trips and other nursery activities.
• Communicate warmly and professionally with families, referring significant questions or concerns to the Lead Teacher.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and contribute positively to the wider NIWA team.
• Attend meetings, training and professional development as required.
• Support NIWA's wider programme, including enrichment activities, extended-day provision and holiday programmes where required.
• Follow NIWA policies and procedures, including safeguarding, health and safety, inclusion, confidentiality and professional conduct.

Who we are looking for

You will ideally have

• A recognised Early Childhood Education, Montessori, childcare or equivalent qualification, or currently working towards one.
• Experience working with young children in a nursery, preschool or Early Years setting.
• A basic understanding of child development and play-based learning.
• Good spoken and written English. Kiswahili would be an advantage.
• A warm, patient and respectful approach with children.
• The ability to work positively with a Lead Teacher and wider team.
• Good communication and organisation skills.
• The confidence to use initiative while understanding when to ask for guidance.
• A reflective and collaborative approach to practice.
• A willingness to observe, learn and continue developing your Early Years practice.
• A flexible attitude and willingness to contribute wherever needed.

Minimum requirements

• Diploma in ECDE or a related field (degree preferred)
• Minimum 3 years' experience working with young children
• TSC registration (preferred)
• Experience with EYFS or Reggio-inspired practice (preferred)
• Paediatric First Aid (preferred, or completed before starting)
• Right to work in Kenya (citizenship or valid work permit)
• Police clearance (Certificate of Good Conduct)
• Fluent spoken and written English