Head of Early Years (Including Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) – Sidmouth, Devon – Permanent Salary: Circa £31,000 Location: Sidmouth, Devon Hours: Full-time Start: ASAP Are you an inspiring Early Years leader with a passion for delivering exceptional educational and safeguarding standards? Do you thrive in roles where vision, care and operational excellence come together? This is a fantastic opportunity to shape a high-quality EYFS provision within a respected and forward-thinking setting. Carrington Wood is delighted to be supporting our client as they look to appoint a Head of Early Years, who will also act as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL). This is a pivotal leadership role, combining strategic direction, hands-on management and a central responsibility for safeguarding within the EYFS. What You’ll Be Doing: ✔ Providing clear, aspirational leadership for the Early Years provision ✔ Driving high standards of teaching, learning and curriculum delivery ✔ Leading and developing EYFS staff, including performance management and supervision ✔ Ensuring compliance with EYFS statutory requirements and school policies ✔ Acting as a Deputy DSL, responding to safeguarding concerns and supporting referrals ✔ Maintaining accurate safeguarding records via CPOMS ✔ Building positive relationships with parents, carers and external agencies ✔ Overseeing EYFS resources, staffing, health & safety and operational management ✔ Supporting emotional, social and physical wellbeing across the Early Years setting What We’re Looking For: A minimum Level 4 qualification in Early Childhood Studies, Education or similar (e.g. BA Early Years, QTS, EYTS, PGCE) Strong leadership experience within an Early Years setting Excellent understanding of EYFS statutory framework and outstanding practice Safeguarding experience, with willingness to maintain DDSL training Confident use of CPOMS, Tapestry and relevant digital systems A calm, resilient and reflective leader who is trusted by children, families and colleagues Strong communication, organisational and people-management skills Why You’ll Love This Role: ✅ Salary circa £31,000 ✅ Free lunch provided ✅ Free on-site parking ✅ Pension scheme ✅ Short-term on-site accommodation available for the right candidate while securing long-term housing ✅ Play a central role in shaping a nurturing, high-quality EYFS environment ✅ Join a committed and supportive school community ✅ Opportunities for professional development and safeguarding training ✅ A meaningful leadership role with real impact on children and families ✅ Work within a values-led organisation with strong safeguarding culture Apply now for a confidential conversation about this Head of Early Years opportunity in Sidmouth, Devon. Carrington Wood is a specialist recruitment consultancy supporting organisations across Cornwall, Devon and the wider South West. We recruit across Finance, Administration, HR, Operations and Leadership on both a temporary and permanent basis