At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to lead and support a community preschool's growth and development.
- Company: Horns Drove Community Childcare, a charity-run preschool in Rownhams.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact, gain leadership experience, and receive ongoing support.
- Why this job: Shape the future of early years education and support local families.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm, good communication skills, and a community-focused mindset.
- Other info: Flexible involvement with opportunities for online volunteering.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
We’re looking for committed, community‑minded volunteers to join the leadership of Horns Drove Community Childcare — a long‑established, charity‑run preschool providing wrap‑around childcare to families in Rownhams, Southampton. If you’re enthusiastic, organised, or simply passionate about supporting early years education, this is a brilliant opportunity to make a meaningful difference. You don’t need childcare experience — just a willingness to contribute your skills and get involved.
Our preschool has served the community for 18 years and is currently undergoing exciting expansion and refurbishment. We care for up to 30 children per day and, following expansion, will welcome an additional 12 places. As a Volunteer Director, you’ll help shape our future and ensure we continue delivering high‑quality support for local families.
About the Role
As a Volunteer Director, you’ll join a small team of at least three local directors who each bring different strengths to the organisation. Your contribution may include:
- Attending monthly board meetings
- Helping with finance tasks (depending on your skills)
- Assisting with fundraising efforts
- Supporting training or development activities
- Providing guidance as the preschool expands and refurbishes
This role is varied and shaped around your strengths. All directors work together collaboratively and supportively, ensuring the preschool continues to thrive.
Skills & Experience Needed
- Enthusiasm and a willingness to help in different areas
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- No prior early‑years or childcare experience required — just commitment and a community focus
Support Offered
- Expenses provided
- Ongoing support from the existing director team
Requirements
- Will require a criminal record (DBS) check
Suitability
This role is suitable for:
- Those wanting to volunteer online or from home
- Volunteers who prefer flexible involvement
- Those who want to support a community organisation at a strategic level
Activities
Volunteers may take part in:
- Monthly meetings
- General admin or organisational tasks
- Finance‑related tasks (if this suits your skill set)
- Supporting training or overseeing development projects
Director (Voluntary) in Southampton employer: Unity Online
Contact Detail:
Unity Online Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director (Voluntary) in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your local community groups or online forums related to early years education. We can connect you with others who share your passion and might have insights or opportunities for volunteering.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to chat with potential team members or during interviews, let your passion for supporting early years education shine through. We want to see that commitment and excitement!
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and open-minded. As a Volunteer Director, your role can vary widely. Embrace the different tasks that come your way, whether it’s finance, fundraising, or admin. We’re all about teamwork and collaboration!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and how you can make a difference in our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Director (Voluntary) in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through. We want to see your commitment to supporting the community and how you can contribute your unique skills to our preschool.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure to highlight your relevant experiences and how they align with the role of Volunteer Director without waffling on.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for this specific role. Mention how your strengths can help us during our exciting expansion and refurbishment, and how you can support our mission to provide high-quality childcare.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Unity Online
✨Know the Organisation
Before your interview, take some time to research Horns Drove Community Childcare. Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you tailor your responses to align with their goals.
✨Highlight Your Skills
Even if you don’t have childcare experience, think about the skills you can bring to the table. Whether it’s finance, fundraising, or organisational skills, be ready to discuss how these can contribute to the preschool's success.
✨Show Your Commitment
As a Volunteer Director, your commitment to the community is key. Be prepared to share examples of how you've contributed to community initiatives in the past, or express your passion for supporting early years education.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the preschool's future plans, the current challenges they face, or how you can best support the team. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in making a difference.