Early Years Assistant

Calling all compassionate and dedicated individuals! Mencap is seeking passionate Early Years Assistants to join our incredible Early Years team in Belfast. Do you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of young children with a learning disability? Mencap is looking for two dedicated and enthusiastic Early Years Assistants to join our Children's Centre and Preschool team in Belfast on a fixed-term contract until 30 July 2027.

To provide flexibility for applicants, these posts are available as either a 35-hour per week contract or may be offered as separate 21-hour and 14-hour per week contracts, depending on the successful applicants and service needs. This role is based on term-time hours. An Enhanced AccessNI check and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) checks are mandatory for this position.

Our specialist Early Years provision delivers a programme of play, care and education for children aged 2–5 years with significant developmental delay and/or complex medical needs. Working as part of a skilled multidisciplinary team, you'll help create a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child has the opportunity to learn, develop and reach their full potential.

What will you do as an Early Years Assistant?

• Support the delivery of stimulating, caring and therapeutic play within an educational environment.
• Work alongside our multidisciplinary team, external professionals and Family Support team to provide high-quality care, learning through play and therapeutic opportunities.
• Create a safe, engaging and inclusive environment that promotes each child’s development, wellbeing and independence.
• Build positive relationships with children and their families, supporting every child to achieve the best possible outcomes.
• Assist with planning activities, observing children’s progress and maintaining children’s records in line with agreed care and learning plans.
• Follow individual therapy programmes under the guidance of Allied Health Professionals.
• Support children with personal care and, following appropriate training, assist with complex medical needs where required.
• Promote safeguarding, equality, health and safety and Mencap’s values in everything you do.

What are we looking for?

We’re looking for someone who is caring, enthusiastic and committed to supporting children with additional needs. Ideally, you will have:

• A QCF Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in Childcare, Learning and Development, Playwork or a related discipline.
• Knowledge of child development and age‑appropriate learning and play activities.
• At least one year’s experience (paid or lived) supporting children aged 0–5 years and their families.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the confidence to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• A child‑centred approach with a genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs to achieve their full potential.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of the role and its requirements. Please refer to the full Job Description and Person Specification for further information.

Additional Information

• Location: Belfast
• Hours: 35, 21 or 14 hours per week (Term Time)
• Contract: Fixed Term until 30 July 2027
• Pre‑employment checks: An Enhanced AccessNI check and the relevant Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) checks are required before appointment.

Our benefits package offers 32 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata), along with a range of perks such as discounts at leading high‑street retailers, access to health cash plans, interest‑free loans, and many more exciting offerings. £25,577 per annum, pro‑rata + excellent benefits £28,706 - £31,003 per annum (dependent on qualifications).