At a Glance
- Tasks: Support schools in enhancing early literacy and language skills for young learners.
- Company: One Excellence English Hub, a leading provider of literacy support across England.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, professional development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible secondment opportunities with strong support from experienced Literacy Specialists.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team dedicated to improving literacy outcomes for all children.
- Qualifications: Experience in early literacy and a commitment to supporting diverse learners.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
One Excellence English Hub is one of only 34 English Hubs across England appointed by the Department for Education, recognised for its expertise in teaching reading and for taking a leading role in supporting schools to improve their provision for phonics, early reading and early language. Our work is driven by a strong moral purpose, focusing particularly on supporting the slowest progressing children in Reception and Year 1, ensuring that every child is successful, regardless of background, additional needs or abilities. We believe that high‑quality early literacy teaching is fundamental to equity, opportunity and lifelong learning.
As an English Hub, we provide support rooted in the most up‑to‑date evidence and guidance linked to the three core aims of the English Hubs programme. All of our work offers schools opportunities to evaluate, refine and strengthen their practice, building sustainable capacity and confident leadership in literacy. We work collaboratively with schools through intensive support partnerships, light‑touch support and high‑quality professional development. Our team of experienced Literacy Specialists brings deep subject knowledge, practical classroom experience and a commitment to reflective, evidence‑informed practice. One Excellence English Hub supports schools across County Durham, Newcastle, Gateshead, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Northumberland.
Purpose of the Role
To improve outcomes in Communication and Language and Literacy by strengthening Reception Year practice in schools that need the most support. This role focuses on implementing evidence‑based approaches to early literacy and supporting the effective implementation of early language programmes. Early language and literacy specialists will address gaps in oral language, vocabulary, comprehension and early writing to secure strong foundations for future learning. Note: Phonics support will not be part of this role. ELLs should have a secure understanding of effective phonics practice so they can identify potential issues and ensure these are directed promptly to English Hub Literacy Specialists.
Literacy Specialist Base School
Base schools must have the capacity, expertise and commitment to release the Early Language and Literacy Specialist to take part in delivering school‑to‑school support for the duration of the programme. Early Language and Literacy Specialists are seconded from their base school through a flexible agreement. Applications must include a supporting statement from the applicant’s Headteacher confirming their commitment to release the member of staff for this time.
Time Commitment
Summer Term 2026 – 24 June, 29 June and 2 July 2026 Early Language Literacy Specialist Days (these must be attended). 1 September 2026 – 20 July 2027 – secondment on an agreement with the Headteacher. When completing the application, the Headteacher will need to state the frequency at which the Literacy Specialist can be released (for example, one day a week).
Payment
Schools will receive £375 per Literacy Specialist support day, plus £75 for completing the associated paperwork (total £450). Specialists must be currently employed by a primary school and will continue to be paid through their school’s payroll.
Application Information
Applicants should submit an application form on My New Term and a supporting statement from their Headteacher confirming their commitment to release them for the role within the application form. CVs will not be accepted.
Disclosure and Equality
The successful applicant will be subject to enhanced clearance through the Disclosure and Barring Service. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Applicants with disabilities will be invited for an interview if the essential job criteria are met. Where our role is customer facing and you are required to speak to members of the public, the ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post. We are committed to employing disabled people and people with health conditions and will make reasonable adjustments to support disabled applicants when required.
For further information or an informal discussion, please contact Beth Dawson or Abby Moore.
Early Language Specialist - One Excellence English Hub employer: North East Ambition
One Excellence English Hub is an exceptional employer dedicated to enhancing early literacy and language skills across the North East of England. With a strong focus on equity and opportunity, we foster a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional development and evidence-informed practices, ensuring our team of Literacy Specialists can make a meaningful impact in schools. Our commitment to supporting the slowest progressing children creates a rewarding environment where employees can grow and thrive while contributing to the success of every child, regardless of their background.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Language Specialist - One Excellence English Hub
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who work in literacy or early language. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at a job fair or an informal gathering, share your enthusiasm for early literacy and how you can make a difference in children's lives.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on the latest evidence-based practices in early language and literacy. Be ready to discuss how you can implement these strategies effectively in schools that need support.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Language Specialist - One Excellence English Hub
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us:Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what One Excellence English Hub is all about. Familiarise yourself with our mission and values, especially our focus on supporting the slowest progressing children. This will help you tailor your application to show how you align with our goals.
Craft Your Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your experience in early language and literacy, and how you've made a difference in your current role. Don’t forget to mention any evidence-based approaches you’ve implemented that align with our work.
Headteacher's Support is Key:Remember, you’ll need a supporting statement from your Headteacher confirming their commitment to release you for this role. So, have a chat with them early on to ensure they’re on board and can provide a strong endorsement of your skills and dedication.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through My New Term as specified. We want to keep things straightforward, so following the application process closely will help us review your application smoothly. Good luck!
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Ambition
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest evidence-based approaches to early literacy and language. Brush up on key concepts like vocabulary development, comprehension strategies, and early writing techniques. This will not only show your expertise but also your commitment to improving outcomes for children.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your strong moral purpose and dedication to supporting slow-progressing children. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to equity and lifelong learning. This will resonate with the interviewers and align with the values of One Excellence English Hub.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss how you would implement early language programmes in schools. Think about specific challenges schools might face and how you would address them. Being able to provide practical solutions will showcase your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
✨Engage with the Team
Since collaboration is key in this role, be prepared to talk about your experience working with other educators. Highlight any past partnerships or team projects that improved literacy practices. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively within a team and contribute to the Hub’s mission.
