The details of this role are as follows: Working hours: 20 hours a week 8am – 1pm Mon- Thurs - To include a 1 hour weekly team meeting. Plus Faculty meetings (1 hour a half term) Annual leave: School Holidays Contract type: Part time temporary Salary: £10,089 (FTE £24,293) The Early Childhood Practitioner plays a versatile role for the Saplings provision for 2-4 year-olds. The role requires flexibility, a nurturing demeanour, and a deep understanding of Steiner Waldorf principles. Candidates must have established experience of Steiner Waldorf Early Years Education, the EYFS, and the ethos and pedagogy that underpins practice in a Steiner Early Childhood setting. Main Responsibilities & Duties: • Assist the Lead Saplings Teacher in creating a warm, nurturing, and harmonious environment that supports the healthy development of young children. • Support the setting and the children in daily routines, including meal times, rest periods, and outdoor activities, fostering a sense of rhythm and security. • Engage children in meaningful, imaginative play experiences that stimulate their creativity and imagination, in line with Waldorf pedagogy. • Foster healthy social interactions and emotional well-being among children, providing gentle guidance and support as needed. • Assist in the preparation and organization of materials and resources for daily activities, ensuring a clean and inviting classroom environment. • Collaborate with the Saplings Group Leader and other colleagues to develop and implement age-appropriate curriculum activities that align with Waldorf educational principles. • Support children's physical development through outdoor play, nature walks, and gross motor activities, promoting a strong connection to the natural world. • Maintain strong professional boundaries with parents, colleagues and within the community in alignment with our Staff Code of Conduct. • Attend staff meetings, Waldorf UK networking meetings, workshops, and professional development opportunities to deepen understanding of Waldorf education and enhance teaching practices. • Uphold the values and ethos of Michael Hall School and the Early Childhood faculty, demonstrating a commitment to progressive and inclusive Waldorf education and lifelong learning. Person Specification: The ideal candidate will possess inner flexibility, adapting to various roles with ease and maintaining resilience in handling changes. A genuine passion for working with children is essential, showing dedication to their growth and a compassionate approach. Candidates should have a Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Qualification at Level 3 or above, though this is desirable. An Early Years qualification at Level 2 or above is required, ensuring knowledge of early childhood development. Eligibility for registration under the Children’s Act 1980 is necessary, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and a commitment to safeguarding children. Familiarity with EYFS regulations is important, integrating these principles within the Steiner Waldorf framework. Experience in a Steiner Early Years setting is desirable for practical understanding of Steiner approaches. The candidate must be physically capable, engaging actively with children and occasionally lifting up to 25kg. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required for effective interaction with children, parents, and colleagues. The candidate should be a proactive team player, able to work independently and committed to ongoing professional development in early childhood education. Michael Hall School values the diversity of its community and aims to have a workforce that reflects this. We therefore encourage applications from all sections of the community. BENEFITS OF WORKING AT MICHAEL HALL SCHOOL: • Free parking on site • Staff discount on fees for children • Bike to work scheme • Access to discounts at retailers and more through our partnership with Bright HR For more information and to find an application form, please visit our website. Michael Hall School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and expects all staff to share this commitment. A successful application will be dependent upon a satisfactory enhanced DBS check and other safeguarding checks and screening, including references. All staff have a key role to play in identifying concerns early and in providing help for children, and are expected to act in accordance with the School’s Safeguarding & Child Protection Policies which are available on our website