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- Tasks: Lead and support children with additional needs in a nurturing nursery environment.
- Company: Join YMCA Fairthorne Group, a charity dedicated to community support and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, discounts on nursery fees, and wellbeing programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your skills in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Level 5 childcare qualification or Level 3 with relevant experience required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Blue Light Card eligibility
- 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days
- Option to purchase additional leave (up to 10 days per annum)
- 50% discount on nursery fees
- Enhanced Maternity
- Day camps discounts: 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum
- Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor: campsite, river hire, activities, day camps
- 30% discount on food in Cafes: Fairthorne, Eastleigh and Andover
- Wellbeing assistance programme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Good quality resources and a modern environment
- A welcoming, caring and supportive culture
Job Purpose: The Lead Practitioner is a key member of our nursery leadership team, with a prime focus on supporting children across the setting who have any form of additional need or vulnerability. The job holder will be expected to observe children and, alongside keypersons, identify children in need of additional support, develop individual education plans, make onward referrals, and support and coach nursery teams to embed high standards of care to meet identified needs. As part of the leadership team, the Lead Practitioner will also contribute towards the wider nursery improvement plan, coach and develop staff and on occasions deputise in the absence of the Nursery Manager. This post is primarily supernumerary with an expectation that the majority of time will be spent working directly with staff and children, in rooms and the garden.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Level 5 childcare qualification or Level 3, relevant experience and willingness to train
- Experience of implementing improvements in an early years setting, including demonstrating best practice, coaching staff, setting objectives, and keeping records
- Experience and understanding of child development, behaviour management, SENCO and identified groups of children
- Good knowledge of matters relating to health and safety
- Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding good practice
- Paediatric First Aid qualification or willingness to train
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (level 3 or above) or willingness to train
The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service. We are an equal opportunities charity with commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace. A copy of this policy will be made available on request. Please apply now for this rewarding position and be part of an amazing charity that continues to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.
SENCo Lead Practitioner employer: YMCA Fairthorne Group
Contact Detail:
YMCA Fairthorne Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SENCo Lead Practitioner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with additional needs or vulnerabilities. Understanding the latest best practices in early years education and how to implement them will set you apart as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff at the nursery or similar settings. They can provide insights into the culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with coaching and developing staff. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully implemented improvements in an early years setting, as this is crucial for the Lead Practitioner role.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your commitment to ongoing professional development. Mention any relevant training or qualifications you are pursuing, especially in areas like safeguarding or paediatric first aid, to demonstrate your dedication to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace SENCo Lead Practitioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a SENCo Lead Practitioner. Familiarise yourself with the job description and think about how your experience aligns with the requirements.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in early years settings, particularly focusing on your skills in supporting children with additional needs and your leadership capabilities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working with children and your commitment to inclusivity. Mention specific examples of how you've implemented improvements or supported staff in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you clearly list your qualifications, especially your Level 5 childcare qualification or Level 3, and any relevant training such as Paediatric First Aid or Designated Safeguarding Lead certifications.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA Fairthorne Group
✨Show Your Passion for Child Development
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with additional needs. Share specific examples of how you've supported children's development in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Highlight Your Coaching Experience
Since the role involves coaching and developing staff, be prepared to discuss your experience in mentoring others. Provide examples of how you've successfully guided colleagues in implementing best practices or improving their skills in an early years setting.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Safeguarding Practices
Understanding safeguarding is crucial for this position. Be ready to talk about your knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures, and share any relevant training or experiences that showcase your commitment to keeping children safe.
✨Prepare Questions About the Nursery's Culture
Show your interest in the nursery by preparing thoughtful questions about its culture and values. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the environment aligns with your own values and approach to childcare.
