At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development and delivery of high-quality Early Learning and Childcare services across Glasgow.
- Company: Join Glasgow City Council, Scotland’s largest local authority dedicated to education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Unique opportunity to work with a forward-looking leadership team in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of childcare and improve outcomes for thousands of children and families.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in education, strong knowledge of Early Years policy, and strategic influence.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an exceptional individual to take on the strategic role of Interim Head of Early Learning and Childcare for a temporary period of 18 months, leading the development, delivery and continuous improvement of ELC services across the city. As part of Scotland’s largest local authority, Glasgow City Council’s Education Services delivers high-quality learning and childcare to nearly 80,000 children and young people. The Council is the largest provider and commissioner of Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) in Scotland, supporting approximately 15,000 children with a budget of £140 million.
The Role
As a key member of the Education Directorate, you will operate at a strategic level, providing leadership and direction across Glasgow’s ELC landscape. You will be responsible for over 2,000 staff and 109 city establishments, alongside oversight of a wide commissioned network including funded nursery providers, school-age childcare services and registered childminders. You will lead the development and delivery of high-quality ELC provision, ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements while improving outcomes for children. This includes managing significant budgets and resources, leading policy development and service reform aligned to Council priorities and maintaining strong partnerships with national bodies.
About You
You will be an experienced senior leader with a proven track record of delivering improvement in complex education environments. You will bring strategic leadership capability, strong knowledge of Early Years education policy and partnership working, and the ability to influence effectively within politically sensitive contexts. As a confident communicator, you will be committed to improving outcomes for children and families and experienced in leading change, managing risk and overseeing large-scale services and resources. You will be educated to degree level in a relevant discipline and committed to continuous professional development. Membership of the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme will be required. This post is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.
Why Join Us
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of Early Learning and Childcare in Glasgow, working at the heart of a forward-looking leadership team to deliver meaningful impact for children, families and communities across the city.
Closing Date: 21 June 2026
Assessment Centre: Week commencing 29 June 2026
Interviews: Week Commencing 06 July 2026
Application Packs
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There are also a number of Accessibility Tools compatible with the myjobscotland website which may assist you with your application. More information on these can be found at myjobscotland accessibility statement.
Further Information
Please note that Glasgow City Council is currently completing a Job Evaluation exercise and introducing a new pay and grading structure which may impact on current salaries quoted in job adverts.
Head of Early Learning and Childcare (Fixed Term) - GLA15504 employer: Glasgow
Glasgow City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead and innovate in Early Learning and Childcare within Scotland's largest local authority. With a strong commitment to professional development, a collaborative work culture, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families, this role provides a rewarding environment for strategic leaders passionate about education. Join us in shaping the future of ELC services across Glasgow, where your expertise will be valued and your contributions will directly enhance community outcomes.
