Early Learning and Inclusion Strategic Lead in City of London

About the Role

This senior role provides strategic leadership within the Education Service, overseeing the planning, development and delivery of high‑quality, expert professional services. The postholder will manage a large, multi‑disciplinary team and ensure the effective delivery of statutory duties, driving high service standards and value for money across the Council's Early Years provision.

Key responsibilities include leading the Council's statutory offer of information, advice and training to Ofsted‑registered Early Years providers, ensuring they meet the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The postholder will also lead the borough's approach to Inclusion, supporting providers to meet the needs of children with learning and developmental delays, SEND, and vulnerable or disadvantaged children. The role includes strategic oversight of Section 23 referrals for children under five with identified delays or SEND, ensuring integrated, multi‑agency support that promotes children's learning and wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement across the borough by analysing data, producing high‑quality reports, and contributing to local authority priorities around early childhood outcomes.
• Champion school readiness and transition, working collaboratively with partners to ensure smooth progression for all children, including those on specialist pathways or moving into specialist settings.
• Lead strong partnerships and explore funding opportunities to sustain high‑quality services, including potential traded or de‑delegated models.
• Safeguarding responsibilities are integral to the role, alongside direct line management of staff.

Key Qualifications and Experience

• Leadership experience managing teams delivering EYFS and SEND support.
• Strong, current knowledge of EYFS, Inclusion and the SEND Code of Practice.
• Ability to build effective partnerships across schools, providers and agencies.
• Skilled in developing strategies, managing performance and delivering quality services.
• Excellent communication, organisation and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience managing budgets and meeting service KPIs.
• Understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality and diverse community needs.
• Relevant degree‑level qualification (e.g., QTS), satisfactory employment references and CIFAS identity checks.
• Satisfactory declaration of interest.
• This role is subject to safer recruitment practices as it involves work with children and/or vulnerable adults.
• Satisfactory DBS check and continued professional body registration (QTS number).

Political Restrictions

This post is politically restricted; therefore the postholder is disqualified from undertaking certain political activities under the Local Government Officers (Political Restrictions) Regulations 1990.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Waltham Forest is a diverse borough where diversity is valued and integral to both service delivery and employment of its staff. The council is proud of its rich mix of communities and works hard to respond to the changing needs of its population. We use our statutory duties on race, gender, disability and equality to ensure a fair workplace. The Council is committed to meeting its four equality objectives, promoting equality of opportunity, opposing all forms of discrimination and ensuring the workforce reflects the diverse communities of Waltham Forest at all levels.

Application and Flexible Working

The council prefers online applications. If you have a disability and are unable to complete an online application, please email to arrange an alternative method. We are keen to support employees to balance their working life with other commitments and will consider flexible working arrangements where possible. If you would like to discuss possible flexible working options that might be applicable to this role, please contact the person named below or discuss this during your interview.