We welcome you to YMCA Derbyshire.
We have been at the heart of the community in Derbyshire since 1847. While the scope of our work has changed considerably over the years, our vision hasn't. Our holistic development in body, mind and spirit and our mission to break down barriers to achievement and help local people to fulfil their potential has remained our constant purpose.
Every year, we support over 300 individuals in our housing provision, enabling them to grow their confidence and move into education, training, employment and into independent living. Alongside this we provide a whole host of youth and community services including our own community gardens. We also provide training and education to 150 young people each year who find mainstream education more difficult, as well as high-quality childcare within our community.
Our team works hard to provide as much care and support for those who need it most, every day we make a difference.
Head of Early Years and Childcare Development
Salary - £40800-£46000 dependant on experience
Hours - 35 hours per week
Location – St Marks Road, Derby with local travel
This is an exciting opportunity for you to join the YMCA, a charity at the heart of the community in Derbyshire. We are committed to helping people at times of need, regardless of gender, race, ability, or faith. Our values to Protect, Trust, Hope and Persevere underpin all of our services across the county.
As part of the Head of Service for Early Years and Childcare within Lifelong Learning Directorate, the primary role is to lead and oversee the comprehensive 0-11 years' service, encompassing Early Years and Childcare, wrap-around out of school care,and school-based activities.
A key aspect of the responsibility lies in ensuring the highest standards of safeguarding across all provisions, while also serving as the nominated individual for Ofsted inspections. Collaborating closely with the Executive team, you will drive the development and implementation of the Early Years and Early Years and Childcare vision and strategy. Additionally,
* actively engage with various stakeholders, including local communities, and government bodies, to foster partnerships and advance the Organisation's objectives on both local and national levels.
* Ensure growth and development of Early Years and childcare staff through effective and visionary apprenticeship programmes, continuous professional development and recruitment and retention of staff.
Experience:
* Proven experience in strategic leadership and development within the Early Years and Childcare sector, with a track record of successfully implementing strategic plans and driving organisational growth.
* Demonstrated experience in Financial Accountability, including budget management, and securing resources through partnership working and funding opportunities.
* Strong background in governance and compliance, with a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements and experience in policy development and implementation.
Qualifications:
* Minimum of level 3 qualification in early years, considered as ‘full and relevant’ by Ofsted.
* Degree or equivalent qualification in Early Childhood Education.
* Relevant professional qualifications or certifications in strategic management, leadership, or governance.
* Knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations governing early years provision, safeguarding, and Organisation governance.
You must hold a full driving licence, business insurance and have use of a car.
The appointment is subject to YMCA Derbyshire receiving two satisfactory references, an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check and a six-month probationary period.
What we offer:
* 25 days holiday as standard with an extra 2 days after 5 years of service
* People celebration event each year. (Celebrating our Peoples Achievements)
* Recognition initiatives such as employee of the year and star of the quarter
* Smart Health app where you will have access to an online doctor for you and your family as well as nutritional advice and Mental Health assistance.
* Life Assurance 2 times your annual salary
* Real Living Wage
* Christmas/ Easter and Quarterly Treats
* Your Birthday off every year
* Long Service rewards
* Training and Development
.............. and more
At YMCA Derbyshire we aim to transform the lives of the people we work with for the better. We are looking for brilliant people who will ensure that safeguarding the people we work with is a priority.
YMCA Derbyshire are proud to be a 'Disability Confident Employer'. If you are disabled, we will guarantee you an interview if you meet the minimum criteria for the role you have applied for. Are you a disabled candidate who would like to apply on this basis?
If you do not wish to apply under the scheme, but do require us to make reasonable adjustments for you to attend an interview, then please let us know what those adjustments will be.
Equality and Diversity Statement:
YMCA Derbyshire is committed to promoting equality and diversity in all aspects of its operations. We value and embrace individual differences and believe that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity. We welcome people from all backgrounds, irrespective of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.
For an informal chat please contact Louise Curd on 07471351183 during the hours of 9am – 4pm Monday to Friday.
Closing date; 14th July 2025 @9am
Interviews to be held; 21st & 23rd July 2025
Employees of YMCA Derbyshire will be required to work within the remit of all organisational policies and procedures and any relevant legislation.
Vision
Our vision is enabling young people and communities to thrive:
So, they can fulfil their dreams;
have a safe space to learn and grow;
feel equipped to belong, contribute and prosper; and
feel supported to be active in body, mind and spirit.
Together we create places where people flourish.
Mission
To develop the whole person, body, mind and spirit.
Values
From 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Protect | Trust | Hope | Persevere
YMCA Derbyshire are committed to providing dual professionalism opportunities
We will do this by offering placements within other organisations in our community.
By supporting dual professionalism, we will improve our development, increase our experiences and outcomes which will positively impact YMCA Derbyshire, our employees, our residents and learners and our communities.