Reports to: School Manager

Apply to: in••••@••••••.com

About JOY Academy

JOY Academy is a private early-years school serving children from Daycare through KG3 in Bijilo, The Gambia. We provide a nurturing, high-quality learning environment supported by a small, dedicated team of educators and support staff. We are looking for a warm, capable Kindergarten Teacher to join our team and help our children grow, learn, and thrive.

Role Summary

The Kindergarten Teacher is responsible for the daily learning experience of a kindergarten class. The role combines classroom teaching, child care, and close communication with parents. We are looking for someone patient, observant, and genuinely fond of young children, who can create a calm and stimulating environment where every child feels safe and supported.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Learning

• Plan and deliver age-appropriate lessons in line with the school curriculum
• Use play-based, hands-on activities to support early literacy, numeracy, and social development
• Prepare classroom materials, displays, and learning resources
• Adapt teaching to the different needs and paces of children in the class
• Assess and document each child’s progress and share regular updates

Classroom Management & Child Care

• Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming classroom environment
• Supervise children at all times, including during meals, play, and transitions
• Provide attentive care, including assistance with toileting, changing, hygiene, and meals as needed for the age group
• Manage classroom behavior with patience, consistency, and kindness
• Uphold child safeguarding standards in every activity

Parent & Family Communication

• Build warm, professional relationships with parents and caregivers
• Share daily and weekly updates on each child’s progress and wellbeing
• Participate in parent meetings, open days, and school events
• Raise any concerns about a child’s development or welfare promptly with the School Manager

Team & School Life

• Collaborate with fellow teachers and support staff
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and planning sessions
• Support school events, performances, and trips
• Follow school policies and contribute to a positive team culture

Requirements

• Teaching qualification or training in early childhood education (or equivalent classroom experience)
• Experience working with young children in an early-years setting
• Warmth, patience, and a genuine love for working with young children
• Strong classroom management and observation skills
• Excellent communication skills in English; fluency in Wolof and/or Mandinka a strong advantage
• Reliability, punctuality, and a professional attitude
• A genuine commitment to child safeguarding and the wellbeing of every child

Applicant Note

Given the nature of early-years care, including assistance with toileting, changing, and personal hygiene, this position is open to female applicants.

Desirable

• Formal qualification in early childhood education or primary teaching
• Experience with a structured early-years curriculum (Montessori, EYFS, or similar)
• First aid training

What We Offer

• A meaningful teaching role in a nurturing, growing school
• A supportive team and a calm, well-organized work environment
• Competitive compensation, commensurate with experience

Deadline: July 10th, 2026.