Supply Teaching Assistant (Early Years School)

We are seeking enthusiastic, child-focused Teaching Assistants for ad hoc supply work throughout the school year, involving supporting Class Teachers in our Early Years School. Relevant experience of working with younger children aged 3-6 years is essential. (e.g. teaching, schools, clubs, sports), and applicants should ideally have some exposure to the British Schools curriculum. Availability to work at short notice is required.

The British School of Amsterdam is a not-for-profit international school providing world-class teaching and learning for children from 3 to 18 years old. We currently have over 1,100 pupils enrolled at the school across three sections: Early Years (3-6 years), Juniors (6-11 years) and Seniors (11-18 years). At The British School of Amsterdam, we offer the best in British education to our students, and a welcoming and inclusive environment for our staff.

Supply Teaching Assistant (Early Years & Junior Schools)

Successful candidates must have worked with children aged 3-5, 5-7 or 7-11 years in relevant teaching-related fields, and will ideally have some experience of the British Schools curriculum (or similar). Preferred qualifications include a teaching qualification, Early Childhood Education certification, or a university degree supported by evidence of relevant experience. An affinity for working with younger children in an education setting is essential.

IMPORTANT: Applicants must have a valid NL residency card, EU passport, or working holiday visa (WHV). Flexibility and availability to work at short notice is required for supply work. Applicants must reside within commuting distance of Amsterdam.

Key responsibilities  

• To provide support and assistance to class teachers in the day to day operating environment of the classroom.   
• To ensure a close match between the learning experiences offered and the individual needs of the children in the class, so as to give each child an opportunity to achieve to the maximum of his/her capability, providing children with opportunities to manage their own learning and become independent learners.  
• To create a secure, happy and stimulating classroom environment, maintaining the highest standards of organisation and discipline, and a high standard of display both in the classroom and in other areas of the school.  
• To foster each child’s self-image and self-esteem and establish relationships which are based on mutual respect, and to ensure that the school’s aims and objectives in relation to the curriculum, equal opportunities and discipline are promoted in everyday classroom organisation and practice.

Person specification

The successful supply teaching assistant will ideally have:   

• Experience working with the English National Curriculum   
• Experience of working with Primary aged pupils (children 6-11 years), or
• Experience of working with Early Years pupils (children 3-6 years)   
• Experience and understanding of a wide range of learning abilities   
• Professional understanding of or an affinity for the educational needs of children   
• International School experience is desirable

Required skills & competencies: 

• Excellent English skills (verbal & written)
• Excellent organisational and classroom skills   
• Good communication skills
• Flexible and co-operative approach to work   
• Strong IT skills to support teaching and learning   
• Good understanding of assessment for learning   
• Ability to work effectively with others and as part of a team   
• A proactive approach to continual professional development   
• Energy, willingness to learn and a good sense of humour

Applications Process

Candidates should use the TES application process. Applications should include a cover letter, addressed to the Principal, Ruth Sanderson, and the contact details for two referees.

Safeguarding

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. The offer of the role will be made subject to receipt of satisfactory references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification checks and other safeguarding checks, and overseas checks (where appropriate).

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

The British School of Amsterdam is committed to a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We believe that a diverse staff body reflects and supports the diversity of our pupils and wider society, and leads to a cognitive diversity that promotes excellence in all areas.