Job Description

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Pre-School Leader to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the operations of our playgroup ensuring a caring and welcoming setting. We want to provide our children with a safe, inclusive and stimulating environment. The leader will take charge of the staff team, the day to day running of Ahoghill Community Playgroup and report directly to the management committee.

Responsibilities

Carry out regular observations and make assessments of each child's needs along with other staff. Make, monitor, evaluate and adjust individual plans as the children reach their next stage in their development. Plan appropriate play-based activities for individual children, taking account of guidance provided from the Early Years Specialist. Ensuring overall safety and well-being of the children. Oversee completion of risk assessments throughout the setting. To establish productive working relationships with children, acting as a role model and setting high expectations. Identify children who require educational/behavioural support and provide assistance within the setting. Liaise with outside agencies where necessary. Ensure that regular planning and preparation is carried out and play activities meet the pre-school curriculum. To promote the inclusion and acceptance of all children within the playgroup, by providing and maintaining equality of opportunity for all children and their families. To select and prepare resources that take into consideration the children's interests, language and cultural backgrounds. Conduct parent teacher consultations (2 per year). Work with the staff in completing transition forms and other reports Engage with parents in their children's learning and keep them informed on progress. Ensure the setting is appropriately laid out and tidied up after the session ends and good standards of hygiene are followed. Ensure that equipment is safe and regularly checked. Purchasing and preparing food for the children at snack time on a rota basis. Carry out any first aid as required. Carry out general administrative duties and record keeping following GDPR guidelines regarding data. Liaise with all relevant bodies to gather the necessary information for Health Visitors, Social Services and auditors to ensure the playgroup is satisfying necessary requirements. Hold regular team meetings and manage staff-
- undertake induction

- appraisals/supervisions

- training

To be responsible for a positive contribution to regular staff and planning meetings (long/medium term planning) Liaising with the management committee and attending meetings to provide regular updates. Attend monthly committee meetings providing a leaders report. To take part in and assist with the organisation of fundraising activities and key events e.g. open days. To comply with and assist with the development of policies and procedures relating to:
-Child Protection- (report any concerns to management e.g. Safeguarding officer.)

-Health and Safety

-Security

-Confidentiality

-Data Protection

To ensure wider communication of the playgroup activities by producing monthly newsletters, updating social media and seesaw (parent app) to engage with parents/guardians. The leader will carry out any other reasonable duties relevant to the post. Comply with the development of policies and procedures preparing them for regular review by management.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential

QCF level 5 (Early Years Care and Education) or equivalent. Minimum of two years paid experience working in a Pre-school/ Early Years setting Experience working in a Pre-School or Early Years setting in a Deputy/Leader role. Thorough understanding of the Northern Ireland Pre-School Curriculum as well as a comprehensive knowledge of child development theories and practices. An awareness of safeguarding policies and procedures within an educational setting. Successful completion of an Access NI and Fit Person check. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as an ability to engage with parent/guardians, other professionals and the wider community to enhance the learning environment. A commitment to continuous professional development. A demonstrated ability to work collectively with a team. A genuine passion for Early Years education. Willingness to attend evening meetings and training. Proficiency in record-keeping and assessment practices ICT Skills- proficiency in Microsoft Office- Ensure wider communication of the playgroup activities through social media platforms, weekly newsletters and display boards. Understanding of the regulatory inspection process. Strong organisational and time management skills.

Desirable

Proven leadership experience within a childcare or educational environment. Creativity and Imagination Good team working skills Friendly and flexible approach Interest in play and planning to cater to the needs of the children Ability to use own initiative Experience using Tapestry System Specialised training in areas such as SEN, Speech and Language or behaviour management Experience in managing or leading a team within a childcare or educational setting. Proficiency in using educational software and technology in an Early Years setting. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Up to date training in the following areas:
- Safeguarding,

- Food Hygiene

- Paediatric First Aid

- Anaphylaxis Awareness Training

- Health and Safety

Apply by emailing ahoghillplaygroupmanagement@gmail.com for application pack.

Closing date: Wednesday 29th October at 12 noon.

Job Type: Part-time

Expected hours: 24 per week

Work Location: In person