We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Pre-School Leader to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the operations of our playgroup ensuring a caring and welcoming setting. We want to provide our children with a safe, inclusive and stimulating environment. The leader will take charge of the staff team, the day to day running of Ahoghill Community Playgroup and report directly to the management committee.
Responsibilities
* Carry out regular observations and make assessments of each child’s needs along with other staff.
* Make, monitor, evaluate and adjust individual plans as the children reach their next stage in their development.
* Plan appropriate play-based activities for individual children, taking account of guidance provided from the Early Years Specialist.
* Ensuring overall safety and well-being of the children.
* Oversee completion of risk assessments throughout the setting.
* To establish productive working relationships with children, acting as a role model and setting high expectations.
* Identify children who require educational/behavioural support and provide assistance within the setting. Liaise with outside agencies where necessary.
* Ensure that regular planning and preparation is carried out and play activities meet the pre-school curriculum.
* To promote the inclusion and acceptance of all children within the playgroup, by providing and maintaining equality of opportunity for all children and their families.
* To select and prepare resources that take into consideration the children’s interests, language and cultural backgrounds.
* Conduct parent teacher consultations (2 per year). Work with the staff in completing transition forms and other reports
* Engage with parents in their children’s learning and keep them informed on progress.
* Ensure the setting is appropriately laid out and tidied up after the session ends and good standards of hygiene are followed.
* Ensure that equipment is safe and regularly checked.
* Purchasing and preparing food for the children at snack time on a rota basis.
* Carry out any first aid as required.
* Carry out general administrative duties and record keeping following GDPR guidelines regarding data.
* Liaise with all relevant bodies to gather the necessary information for Health Visitors, Social Services and auditors to ensure the playgroup is satisfying necessary requirements.
* Hold regular team meetings and manage staff-- undertake induction- appraisals/supervisions- training
* To be responsible for a positive contribution to regular staff and planning meetings (long/medium term planning)
* Liaising with the management committee and attending meetings to provide regular updates.
* Attend monthly committee meetings providing a leaders report.
* To take part in and assist with the organisation of fundraising activities and key events e.g. open days.
* To ensure wider communication of the playgroup activities by producing monthly newsletters, updating social media and seesaw (parent app) to engage with parents/guardians.
* The leader will carry out any other reasonable duties relevant to the post.
* Comply with the development of policies and procedures preparing them for regular review by management.
Skills and Qualifications
* QCF level 5 (Early Years Care and Education) or equivalent.
* Minimum of two years paid experience working in a Pre-school/ Early Years setting
* Experience working in a Pre-School or Early Years setting in a Deputy/Leader role.
* Thorough understanding of the Northern Ireland Pre-School Curriculum as well as a comprehensive knowledge of child development theories and practices.
* An awareness of safeguarding policies and procedures within an educational setting.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as an ability to engage with parent/guardians, other professionals and the wider community to enhance the learning environment.
* A commitment to continuous professional development.
* A demonstrated ability to work collectively with a team.
* Willingness to attend evening meetings and training.
* Proficiency in record-keeping and assessment practices
* ICT Skills- proficiency in Microsoft Office
* Understanding of the regulatory inspection process.
* Proven leadership experience within a childcare or educational environment.
* Good team working skills
* Interest in play and planning to cater to the needs of the children
* Experience using Tapestry System
* Specialised training in areas such as SEN, Speech and Language or behaviour management
* Experience in managing or leading a team within a childcare or educational setting.
* Proficiency in using educational software and technology in an Early Years setting.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office
* Up to date training in the following areas: Safeguarding, Food Hygiene, Paediatric First Aid, Anaphylaxis Awareness Training, Health and Safety
Application Information
Apply by emailing ahoghillplaygroupmanagement@gmail.com for application pack.
Area: Derry or Londonderry
Closing date: 06 Nov 2025
Area: All of Northern Ireland
Closing date: 07 Nov 2025
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