Early Support Assistant

Are you passionate about helping children develop a lifelong love of reading?

We are seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic and nurturing Early Reading Support Assistant to join our school. This rewarding role involves supporting pupils across EYFS and KS1 in developing their early reading and phonics skills, helping them build confidence, fluency and a strong foundation for future learning.

The successful candidate will work closely with teachers and leaders to deliver high-quality reading support and interventions, ensuring all pupils have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Location: Burnley
Salary: £14.25 - £15 per hour
Contract Type: Maternity cover
Hours: 8.30am – 3.30pm
Start Date: Monday 2nd November 2026

• Support the delivery of phonics and early reading sessions.
• Work with individual pupils and small groups to develop reading skills.
• Deliver targeted interventions to support pupils who require additional help with reading and phonics.
• Encourage a love of reading and promote positive reading habits.
• Support the assessment and monitoring of pupils' progress.
• Prepare and organise reading resources and learning materials.
• Work closely with class teachers and leaders to ensure effective support for all learners.
• Foster a positive, inclusive and engaging learning environment.

• Experience of working with children in an educational setting.
• A good understanding of early reading and phonics strategies.
• Knowledge of phonics programmes such as Read Write Inc., Little Wandle or similar.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to motivate, encourage and inspire young learners.
• A patient, caring and supportive approach.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

• A welcoming and supportive school community.
• Enthusiastic and friendly pupils who enjoy learning.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A dedicated and collaborative staff team.
• The opportunity to make a significant difference to children's reading development.
• A positive and inclusive working environment.

Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and all other safer recruitment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.