Deputy Leader

You will work in partnership with families to promote and facilitate positive parenting and the enhancement of the role of parents as ‘first educators'.

• The post holder will support and when required lead in a variety of service delivery within the Sure Start project.
• The post holder will innovatively support and extend play experiences to ensure early outcomes are achieved.

• NVQ Level III in Child Care Learning and Development and QCF Level 5 Diploma in Childcare Learning and Development (Management) OR currently undertaking a course of study that will lead to a level 5 qualification within two years from the date of app
• of appointment.
  
  ORBA (Hons) degree in Early Years or equivalent.
• Two years’ experience working with young children in a group-based setting (paid/voluntary experience is acceptable (Please note student placements cannot be considered as part of the 2 year experience criteria)

Join Early Years the organisation for young children as Early Years Deputy Leader

Location:

Rainbow Sure Start, Castlederg

Hours:

35 hours per week, term time 45 weeks, Monday to Thursday 9:00am to 5:00pm, Friday 9:00am to 2:00pmTenure:
Permanent Salary: NJC Scale 4, Point 7 to 11 (£25,584 to £27,269) per annum pro rata.

Do you have a passion for making a meaningful impact in early childhood education?

Do you believe in the power of play to unlock potential?

Be part of our team and help shape the futures of children by fostering growth and learning through purposeful opportunities.

At Early Years, we are committed to fostering growth for both the children and our staff. Joining means an opportunity to enhance your skills, make a meaningful difference, and collaborate with a team that upholds dedication, compassion, and excellence in early years care and  return, Early Years provides a comprehensive rewards package, including a competitive salary, 36 days of annual leave (pro rata), inclusive of statutory/public holidays, a contributory pension scheme, options to purchase additional leave, and access to healthcare schemes.

The role

As Early Years Deputy Leader, you will ensure children attending the Sure Start programmes have the best start in life by providing a safe, welcoming, high quality, inclusive early education environment, working to improve the ability to learn, improve health and social development of children, antenatal to four years of age.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Tuesday 10 March 2026.For shortlisted applicants it is anticipated that interviews will take place on Friday 20 March 2026.A reserve list may be held for a period of up to six months for the same or similar roles if this applies to you, we’ll let you know via email.

Should you need to contact us, please use the following methods:

Email: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Phone:  Option 5

Early Years is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to providing flexible friendly working conditions. As Protestants and males are currently known to be under-represented in the Organisation, we would particularly welcome applications from these groups.