At a Glance
- Tasks: Support community programmes for early years and children's services, engaging families and facilitating activities.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on enhancing health, education, and employment outcomes in local communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, opportunities for personal growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a rewarding role that fosters child development and strengthens community ties.
- Qualifications: Must have QCF Level 3 Child Care qualification and experience in early years settings.
- Other info: Full driving licence required; evening and weekend work may be necessary.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 ÂŁ per year.
- Contract: Initially to October 2026 (this may be extended subject to funding)
- Location: Belfast/Lisburn/Newtownabbey
Job Background
The Community Child Development Officer will support the delivery of community-based programmes, with a particular focus on early years and children’s services. This role involves engaging with families, facilitating child-centred activities, and working in partnership with local agencies to enhance outcomes in health, education, income, and employment.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Work alongside the Community Child Development Lead, following their leadership and guidance to ensure the effective delivery of programmes and services.
- Build, strengthen, and sustain relationships within communities to support identified needs, such as school readiness and after‑school support.
- Identify service users in need, provide home visits, offer signposting, and facilitate (or assist in facilitating) targeted group sessions for children and parents.
- Deliver engaging, age‑appropriate play and learning opportunities that support children’s development in safe and welcoming environments.
- Work collaboratively within a multi‑disciplinary team, ensuring that planning considers children’s abilities, interests, language, and cultural backgrounds.
- Support parents in maximising their children’s potential, including home‑based interventions where needed.
- Foster children’s emotional and social development by promoting positive behaviour through role modelling.
- Ensure facilities, resources, and equipment are well‑maintained, compliant, and appropriate for children’s needs.
- Network with schools, churches, food banks, community groups, and other agencies to enhance service provision.
- Maintain accurate records, reports, and safeguarding procedures, ensuring compliance with organisational policies.
- Participate in training and professional development to enhance skills and effectiveness in the role.
- Promote Community Root Cause by participating in local events and assisting in the development of promotional materials.
- Minimum of QCF Level 2 Child Care qualification or equivalent (or working towards)
- English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above
- Minimum of 1 year’s paid / unpaid working in an early years or child development setting
- Experience of planning and facilitating groups
- Ability/commitment to work flexible hours as required (including evenings and weekends)
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Package
- The candidate must hold a full and current driving licence valid in the UK with access to a car and business insurance on appointment
- Paid / unpaid experience of partnership and multi‑agency / multi-disciplinary working within communities
- Knowledge and/or experience of Community Development Work.
For more information, or a full job description/person specification, please contact the Human Resources Department Tel: (028) 9084 8494 or email: recruit@brysongroup.org
A satisfactory Access NI Enhanced / Standard disclosure or Garda Clearance is required prior to commencement of employment.
Bryson adheres to Access NI Code of Practice available upon request.
Closing date for receipt of completed applications is:
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Community Child Development Officer employer: Bryson Group
Contact Detail:
Bryson Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Child Development Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local community and its needs. Understanding the specific challenges families face in your area will help you engage more effectively during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in child development or community services. Attend local events or workshops to build connections, as personal recommendations can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with planning and facilitating group activities. Think of specific examples where you've successfully engaged children and parents, as this will showcase your practical skills and understanding of child development.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to demonstrate your flexibility and commitment to working outside standard hours. Highlight any previous experiences where you've adapted your schedule to meet the needs of families, as this is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Community Child Development Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Community Child Development Officer.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any experience you have in early years or child development settings. Include specific examples of how you've engaged with families, facilitated activities, or worked with local agencies to enhance outcomes.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Make sure to mention your QCF Level 3 Child Care qualification or equivalent, as well as your GCSE English and Maths results. This will demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications required for the position.
Personalise Your Application: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for child development and community engagement. Explain why you want to work in this role and how you can contribute to the community's needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bryson Group
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Community Child Development Officer. Familiarise yourself with community-based programmes and how they impact early years and children's services. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience working in early years or child development settings. Highlight specific examples where you've engaged with families, facilitated activities, or collaborated with local agencies. This will illustrate your capability to meet the job's requirements.
✨Demonstrate Relationship-Building Skills
Since the role involves building relationships within communities, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully established connections in past roles. Discuss your approach to understanding community needs and how you’ve supported them effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work flexibly. Think about situations where you had to adapt your approach to meet the needs of children and families, and be prepared to explain your thought process.