At a Glance
- Tasks: Support early years programmes for children aged 0-4 and their families.
- Company: Join Barnardo's, a passionate community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a nurturing environment with potential for extension.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a supportive team dedicated to community needs.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for working with young children and a full driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for Early Years Practitioner (24 hours) maternity cover (fixed term to 09/07/2027 - with possibility of extension). As an Early Years Practitioner, you will be a vital part of our multi‑disciplinary team, delivering engaging and nurturing early years programmes for children aged 0–4 and their families.
Your role will include:
- Supporting the Developmental Programme for 2–3‑Year‑Olds, running three 2.5‑hour sessions weekly (September–June)
- Delivering fun, creative Outreach Play Sessions in local community settings
- Building trusted relationships with families, including conducting home visits
- Promoting positive play, early learning, and social development
- Working collaboratively with colleagues to ensure the highest standards of care
About Us: G-Old Community Partnership Sure Start has been supporting families in the Mid Ulster area for over 25 years. Funded by the Department of Education and delivered by Barnardo’s, our work is rooted in community needs and focused on early intervention. We are passionate about helping children and families thrive in warm, inclusive environments.
What We’re Looking For:
Essential Criteria:
- A genuine interest and passion for working with young children and their families in the early years.
- A full driving licence and access to a car are essential, due to the wide geographical area covered across Mid Ulster (Applicants with a disability that prevents them from driving may demonstrate an alternative means of meeting mobility requirements).
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience in communicating effectively with parents/carers regarding their children’s needs.
- QCF Level 2 in Playwork or equivalent.
- Relevant experience working or volunteering with children aged 0–4 years.
Contact Details: recruitment.supportteam@barnardos.org.uk
Additional Requirements: The successful candidate will also be required to undertake an Enhanced Access NI with Child Barred List check.
Early Years Practitioner (Maternity Cover) (July 2027) Barnardo's in Cookstown employer: EFDNI
Barnardo's is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and the families they serve. With a strong focus on professional development, staff are encouraged to grow their skills in a nurturing environment while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children aged 0-4 in the Mid Ulster area. The opportunity to engage with the community through creative outreach sessions and build lasting relationships with families makes this role not only rewarding but also vital to the local community's development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner (Maternity Cover) (July 2027) Barnardo's in Cookstown
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events related to early years education. This is a great way to meet families and professionals in the field, plus it shows your commitment to the community and the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to early years roles. Think about how you would handle different scenarios with children and families, and be ready to share your experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner (Maternity Cover) (July 2027) Barnardo's in Cookstown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Make sure to highlight your genuine interest in working with young children and their families. We want to see your enthusiasm for early years education shine through in your application!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the Early Years Practitioner role. We love seeing how you connect your background to what we do.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you into our recruitment process.
How to prepare for a job interview at EFDNI
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an Early Years Practitioner inside out. Familiarise yourself with the developmental programmes for 2–3-year-olds and think about how you can contribute to fun, creative outreach play sessions. This will show your genuine interest and passion for working with young children and their families.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to communicate effectively with parents and carers. If you've worked or volunteered with children aged 0–4, be ready to discuss specific situations where you made a positive impact on their development.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. They’ll want to see how you interact and relate to others, especially when it comes to nurturing relationships with families. A warm, friendly approach can go a long way!
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle certain situations in a childcare setting. Think through some scenarios related to promoting positive play and social development, and be prepared to share your thoughts on how you would approach them.
