Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a fun and safe playgroup for children aged 0-4, planning engaging activities.
- Company: A dedicated preschool focused on children's happiness and development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a creative work environment.
- Qualifications: QCF Level 5 Diploma in Child Care or relevant experience with young children.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to nurturing the next generation.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
The playgroup is committed to delivering excellent outcomes for children. We pride ourselves on running a setting where children are happy, safe and able to reach their potential. Our staff team are the most important resource we have to ensure that this happens. We want staff who are child centred and willing to go the extra mile to make sure that our children fulfil their potential.
The Preschool Leader will be responsible for the day to day running of the Preschool to ensure safe, stimulating play in a safe, caring and welcoming environment for children and their families in line with DHSSPS Minimum standards for children under age 12, the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This will involve planning, preparing and delivering play based activities appropriate for children aged 0-4 years:
- To lead short, medium and long-term planning for the group.
- The assessment, monitoring and recording of individual children’s development.
- Responsible for the management and development of the Preschool staff including the allocation and monitoring of work, appraisal and training.
- To develop the Preschool in terms of reputation and growth.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for the overall safety and wellbeing of the children.
- Oversee the completion of risk assessments throughout the setting both indoors and outdoors.
- Operational Management.
- Family Engagement.
- Child Welfare & Safeguarding; Assessment & Recording.
Skills and Qualifications
- A qualification at QCF Level 5 Diploma in Child Care, Learning and Development or Playwork; or a relevant occupational qualification in early years’ education, social work, nursing, teaching or health visiting.
- A minimum of 2 years paid experience working with children 0-4.
- Good knowledge and understanding of NI Preschool curriculum guidelines.
- Knowledge of child development including age appropriate areas of learning.
- Experience of developing long, medium and short-term planning for early years setting.
- BA Hons Degree in Early Childhood Studies, or Degree level qualification in Early Years.
- 2 years’ previous experience leading and supervising members of staff in an early year setting with children.
Preschool Playgroup Leader in Ballymena employer: Kirkinriola Early Years
Contact Detail:
Kirkinriola Early Years Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Preschool Playgroup Leader in Ballymena
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the playgroup's values and mission. When you walk in for your interview, show us that you understand what makes our setting special. Share how your experience aligns with our commitment to creating a safe and happy environment for children.
✨Tip Number 2
Bring your A-game when it comes to showcasing your planning skills. We want to see how you can create engaging activities for kids aged 0-4. Prepare a few examples of play-based activities you've led in the past to demonstrate your creativity and understanding of child development.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your leadership experience! We’re looking for someone who can manage and inspire a team. Be ready to discuss how you've supported staff development and fostered a collaborative environment in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you don’t miss out on any updates. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Preschool Playgroup Leader in Ballymena
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Childcare: When writing your application, let your love for working with children shine through. We want to see how you can create a happy and safe environment for our little ones, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to child development.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to match the job description. Highlight your qualifications and experiences that align with the role of Preschool Playgroup Leader. We’re looking for someone who understands the NI Preschool curriculum and can lead effectively!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your skills and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to engage with our digital platform.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirkinriola Early Years
✨Know Your Child Development Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of child development and the NI Preschool curriculum guidelines. Be ready to discuss how you would apply this knowledge in planning activities for children aged 0-4. It shows you're not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about their growth.
✨Show Off Your Leadership Skills
Since you'll be managing staff, think of examples where you've successfully led a team or supervised others in an early years setting. Prepare to share specific instances where your leadership made a difference, whether it was through training, appraisals, or simply creating a positive environment.
✨Engage with Family Engagement Strategies
Family engagement is key in this role. Have some ideas ready on how you would involve families in the preschool community. Whether it's through events, communication strategies, or feedback mechanisms, showing that you value family input can set you apart.
✨Safety First!
Be prepared to discuss your approach to child welfare and safeguarding. Familiarise yourself with risk assessment processes and be ready to explain how you would ensure a safe and welcoming environment for the children. This is crucial, so make it a priority in your prep!
