Job Description

About the Role


We are seeking a Project Coordinator to join our Childcare & Early Education Team and lead the government-funded expansion of wraparound childcare in Rochdale (see National Wraparound Childcare Programme Handbook - a guide for local authorities (publishing.service.gov.uk)). This fixed-term post managing an already up and running project through to the end of the project until 31 March 2026


Main Responsibilities

Monitor and report on grant budget expenditure, liaising with the designated budget holder. Map current and planned wraparound childcare provision across the borough, identifying ongoing gaps in coverage. Track progress of DfE funded wraparound services and flag any risks to sustainability once funding ends in March 2026. Devise and implement solutions to boost sustainability for low-uptake provisions. Guide any new providers through grant application preparation, ensuring submissions demonstrate value for money and quality, aligned with government guidance and Rochdale priorities. Conduct initial suitability screening of grant applications ahead of panel review. Help establish and maintain monitoring processes for capital and programme fund spend, as well as overall project implementation. Partner with the Early Years & Childcare Advisor to uphold safeguarding standards and provision quality. Collate and submit data for DfE and Delivery Partner (Childcare Works) grant returns, readiness surveys, and internal reports.


This role blends administrative precision with a people-first approach to support childcare expansion behind the scenes. It does

not

involve direct work with children



About You


You are organised, detail-oriented and confident handling data. You take pride in helping others and solving problems with patience and clarity, and you understand the importance of data protection and regulatory compliance. Your skill set includes:

Skilled in using spreadsheets for data collation and analysis Strong project management experience, including action planning and monitoring Beyond your technical skills, you bring empathy, calm problem-solving, and a collaborative spirit when supporting childcare providers. Every report, audit and analysis you produce will directly strengthen local childcare services.

About Us


We're a small, dedicated team within Rochdale's Early Years, Early Help and Neighbourhood Services, committed to equitable access to wraparound childcare supporting the agendas of helping families back to work and children getting the best start in life. You'll join a supportive, collaborative environment where your contributions directly impact the lives of children (011 years) and their families across the borough.


The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects staff to share this commitment.


Appointment to this post is subject to a DBS.


For internal RBC candidates approval for secondment should be obtained from your Service Director (or nominated representative) before applying for the post.


If you are interested in what we are offering, and have the skills we are looking for we want to hear from you. If you would like to discuss the post further please contact Julia Henry Strategic Lead Childcare & Education on 01706 926765


To apply please demonstrate how you meet the essential requirements of the person specification.


Please include reference to your qualifications that are specified on the person specification within your application.

Unfortunately we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role