Early Years Co-ordinator

Overview

Early Years Co-ordinator – Full Time, 37 Hours per Week. Based at Loy Buildings, Cookstown. Supporting Gold Sure Start services across the Mid Ulster area.

About the Role

We are currently recruiting for a full-time Early Years Co-ordinator (37 hours per week) to join our dedicated Sure Start team. This is a key leadership role where you will:

• Support the Children\’s Service Manager and Team Manager to deliver high-quality early years provision that meets Social Care Inspectorate requirements and commissioner expectations.
• Supervise Early Years Supervisors and Assistants, providing guidance, support and training to ensure excellent practice.
• Champion child-centred approaches, embedding the Solihull Approach and Five to Thrive model across all programmes.
• Lead quality assurance, risk management and improvement planning processes.
• Work directly with children and families when required, ensuring care is trauma-informed and needs-led.
• Build strong partnerships with parents and professionals, helping children aged 0-4 to thrive socially, emotionally and educationally.
• Contribute to service development and represent Gold Sure Start at internal and external meetings.

About You

We are looking for a motivated and compassionate professional with:

• A QCF Level 5 Diploma in Playwork/Childcare OR NNEB, BTEC in Nursery Nursing/Childhood Studies, OR BA Early Childhood Studies (or willing to work towards).
• Experience working with children under 4 years in a day care or crèche setting, including programme development.
• Proven experience supervising staff and working as part of a team.
• Experience of working in partnership with parents and professionals to support children\’s development.
• A full driving licence and access to a car, as you will be supporting services across the Mid Ulster area. Applicants with a disability that prevents driving may demonstrate alternative means of mobility.

About Us

Gold Community Partnership Sure Start has been supporting families across Mid Ulster for over 24 years. Funded by the Department of Education and delivered by Barnardo\’s, our work focuses on early intervention, family support, and ensuring every child gets the very best start in life. From developmentally appropriate programmes for 2-3 year olds to play-based learning sessions and family support services, our dedicated team is passionate about helping children and families thrive in welcoming, inclusive environments.

The Details

• Location: Loy Buildings, Cookstown (with travel across Mid Ulster)
• Salary: £31,512 – £38,340
• Hours: 37 hours per week
• Contract: Permanent
• Closing Date: Midnight, 2 November 2025

The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced Access NI with Child Barred List check. Social Services vetting will also be required.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in shaping early years services across Mid Ulster. If you are ready to inspire, lead and support both children and staff, we\’d love to hear from you.

Applying now helps us create brighter futures for children and families in our community.

Other Information

• Waiting List: A waiting list of applicants will be compiled for any similar posts arising in the next 12 months.
• Note: Please be aware the advert might close before the displayed closing date due to high application volume. We recommend applying as soon as possible.

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