Early Years Teacher

York Steiner School is seeking two, part-time Early Years Class Teachers.

There are two roles 0.4 and 0.6FTE on a fixed term contract 3rd September 2026 - 31st August 2027.

Education and qualifications

Essential

Experience of working in an Waldorf Kindergarten setting

A level 2 or 3 EYE qualification (minimum) as recognised under the EYFS

A good general standard of education 

Desirable

Steiner Waldorf kindergarten training is preferred but not essential. Candidate must be open to CPD and willing to develop their skills and knowledge in this area 

Person Specification:

Attributes/skills required

The Kindergarten teacher will be

Reliable, honest, have a good history of attendance, understand the importance of and respect the need for confidentiality.

able to provide evidence of their competency to work with young children

interested in Anthroposophy

organised and responsible.

able to work both as part of a close knit team and on their own initiative

self motivated

imaginative and creative

flexible and have a positive attitude to work

a good communicator, with children, parents and colleagues

able to cope with pressure.

a personal commitment to safeguarding and keeping children safe

Duties and responsibilities 

The Kindergarten teacher should take responsibility for 

Providing a well-balanced programme of activities for the children according to the Steiner Waldorf curriculum and the Early Years Foundation Stage, following school planning proformas. 

The care, health and safety of the children during their time at school

Keeping written records of children’s progress including planning, observing, reviewing in keeping with current practice in the department. 

Liaising with the SENDCO regarding any child with SEN

Liaising with parents, including interviews, home visits and parents evenings

Provided written observation and assessments that a) feed into planning and form part of the summative assessment procedure currently used in EY (2 reports a year) and b) contributes to a detailed end of year report

Building a good relationship with the assistant so that their role in the classroom is effective and supportive.

Liaising with colleagues in the Early Years Department, including attending the weekly meeting from 2– 4pm on Thursdays and other meetings where necessary

Working with colleagues in the whole school, including the office and ensuring that s/he is informed of relevant issues, preferably by attending the weekly staff meeting. 

Be willing to take on additional roles and responsibilities within the EY department, according to individual experience and expertise. This includes a willingness to undertake further training, where needed.

Interviewing new families

Overseeing the decoration and maintenance of the Kindergarten and the equipment therein.

Monitoring and keeping to agreed budgets

Attending training where it is relevant. 

Willing to work with a mentor and provide mentoring to colleagues including parent and child group leaders when required.

Taking part in the appraisal of his/her own work performance and must be prepared to assist in the mentoring of colleagues

Covering for absent colleagues when required

Any other duties as and when required

 Management and supervision

 The Kindergarten Teacher is responsible to the Early Years Lead and through them to the School Leadership Group and Headteacher and the Board of Trustees.

York Steiner School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and passing an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check.

York Steiner School is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to ensuring that every job applicant or employee receives equal treatment irrespective of sex, marital status, age, race, nationality, disability, sexuality or religious belief.