Preschool Playgroup Leader

The playgroup is committed to delivering excellent outcomes for children. We pride ourselves on running a setting where children are happy, safe and able to reach their potential. Our staff team are the most important resource we have to ensure that this happens. We want staff who are child centred and willing to go the extra mile to make sure that our children fulfil their potential.

The Preschool Leader will be responsible for the day to day running of the Preschool to ensure safe, stimulating play in a safe, caring and welcoming environment for children and their families in line with DHSSPS Minimum standards for children under age 12, the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This will involve planning, preparing and delivering play based activities appropriate for children aged 0-4 years:
To lead short, medium and long-term planning for the group. The assessment, monitoring and recording of individual children’s development. Responsible for the management and development of the Preschool staff including the allocation and monitoring of work, appraisal and training. To develop the Preschool in terms of reputation and growth.

• Responsible for the overall safety and wellbeing of the children.
• Oversee the completion of risk assessments throughout the setting both indoors and outdoors.
• Operational Management.
• Family Engagement.
• Child Welfare & Safeguarding;
  Assessment & Recording.

• A qualification at QCF Level 5 Diploma in Child Care, Learning and Development or Playwork; or a relevant occupational qualification in early years’ education, social work, nursing, teaching or health visiting.
• A minimum of 2 years paid experience working with children 0-4
• Good knowledge and understanding of NI Preschool curriculum guidelines.
• Knowledge of child development including age appropriate areas of learning.
• Experience of developing long, medium and short-term planning for early years setting.
• BA Hons Degree in Early Childhood Studies, or Degree level qualification in Early Years’.
• 2 years’ previous experience leading and supervising members of staff in an early year setting with children.

To apply email:

Vacancy  Job  Job Sector Childcare and Social Work Area Co Antrim Location Ballymena Salary To be confirmed. No. vacancies 1 Contract Type Permanent Weekly hours 24 Published date 06/02/2026 Closing date 20/02/2026 Worktime 5 days per week. Term time only, to be confirmed

Area:
All of Northern Ireland. Closing date: 13 Feb 2026