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- Tasks: Lead and stabilise early years provision across three nurseries during a key transition period.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking London Borough Council dedicated to high-quality early education.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: This role offers immediate influence and the opportunity to drive positive change in early years education.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised Early Years qualification and senior leadership experience.
- Other info: Flexible working across multiple sites with support for diverse needs.
3 – 6 month initial contract North London £300 - £400 per day Inside IR35 (via umbrella) Hybrid working. CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will be taking place ASAP. We are currently supporting a forward-thinking London Borough Council in their search for an experienced Interim Executive Head of Early Years for a 3–6 month assignment. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead and stabilise early years provision across three maintained nurseries during a key period of transition.
The ideal candidate will be a confident and experienced early years leader, capable of stepping into an interim role and delivering immediate impact.
Key Responsibilities as Executive Head of Early Years:- Provide strategic and operational leadership across three local authority nurseries.
- Ensure high standards of early education and care, maintaining Ofsted readiness.
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring robust safeguarding practices.
- Lead and support staff teams (6-15 direct reports), driving performance and professional development.
- Manage budgets, staffing, and service delivery in line with council policies.
- Collaborate with multi-agency partners to support children with additional needs.
- Promote inclusion, community engagement, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the implementation of policies, procedures, and health & safety compliance.
- Recognised Early Years qualification and senior leadership experience.
- Proven track record of managing early years settings and leading through Ofsted inspections.
- Strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding legislation, and multi-agency working.
- Experience in budget management and financial planning within the public sector.
- Ability to lead teams through change with clarity, empathy, and resilience.
- Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to work across multiple sites.
This is a high-impact interim role offering the chance to make a real difference in a short timeframe. If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail or know someone who this may be of interest to, please contact Sarah Williams or apply today. Our clients are passionate about creating and evolving a diverse workforce and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant. Recruiting decisions are based on your experience and skills. Any reasonable adjustments in the workplace will be fully supported during the application and hiring process.
Executive Head of Early Years employer: Baltimore Consulting Limited
Contact Detail:
Baltimore Consulting Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Head of Early Years
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the early years sector, especially those who have experience with local authority nurseries. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the specific challenges and opportunities within the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest Ofsted guidelines and safeguarding legislation. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in early years education during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing change and leading teams through transitions. Highlight specific examples where you successfully implemented new policies or improved performance, as this will resonate well with the expectations of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific borough council and its early years provision. Understanding their current initiatives and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your leadership style aligns with their goals during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Head of Early Years
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in early years leadership. Focus on your achievements in managing nurseries, leading teams, and ensuring Ofsted readiness.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your passion for early years education and your ability to lead through change. Mention specific examples of how you've driven performance and supported staff development.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your recognised Early Years qualification and any additional certifications. Emphasise your understanding of EYFS and safeguarding legislation, as these are crucial for the role.
Showcase Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed budgets. Discuss your experience with multi-agency collaboration and promoting inclusion within early years settings.
How to prepare for a job interview at Baltimore Consulting Limited
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles in early years settings. Highlight specific examples where you successfully led teams, managed change, and improved educational outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Safeguarding Practices
As the role involves being the Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensure you can articulate your understanding of safeguarding legislation and how you've implemented robust practices in past positions.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges in early years education. Think of scenarios where you had to make quick decisions or manage crises effectively.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the role requires working with multi-agency partners, be ready to discuss your experience in collaborating with other professionals. Share examples of how you’ve supported children with additional needs through teamwork.
