Overview
This is an exciting time to join our Early Years Team as we strengthen support for early education and childcare across the county. We are looking for a proactive and detail‑oriented individual to take on the role of Early Years Funding and Auditing Support Officer. You will work closely with the Early Years Team, the Early Education Funding (EEF) Team, and a wide range of early years settings, including childminders, nurseries and school-based provision.
Responsibilities
* Support settings in understanding and adhering to updated DfE guidance, including Sections A1.32-A1.44 of the Early Education and Childcare statutory guidance.
* Lead the development of systems to ensure transparency in funding, invoicing, and delivery of free entitlement hours across all provider types.
* Provide clear advice to providers on issuing itemised invoices that separate free entitlement hours, paid hours, food, consumables, and optional extras.
* Ensure no mandatory or hidden charges are applied in connection with free entitlement hours.
* Assist with auditing and monitoring of early years funding allocations.
* Use Power BI to map and analyse early years data.
* Create and manage spreadsheets to support funding and compliance processes.
* Update and manage Eventbrite for training and engagement activities and support with the branding of the EY team using Canva.
* Support with the Family Information Service.
* Develop and maintain strong relationships with early years settings, educators and stakeholders.
* Handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Qualifications and Experience
* Experience working with schools and early years settings.
* Strong organisational and communication skills.
* Confidence in using Excel, Power BI, and digital tools to manage and present data.
* A keen eye for detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
* Understanding of early years funding mechanisms and sector challenges (desirable).
* Commitment to safeguarding and data protection principles.
About Herefordshire
Herefordshire is a rural county located in the heart of the Marches on the border with Wales. The council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If offered this position, it will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service enhanced check and further pre‑employment checks. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and will consider requests for flexible working arrangements and reasonable adjustments.
Benefits
* Competitive salary: HC7 £32,061 - £36,363 per annum
* Generous annual leave: 31 days (pro rata) plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 10 days per year
* Flexible working options: flexi-time, job-share, part-time hours and, in some instances, home working
* Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) enrolment
* Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support and counselling
* Professional membership fees paid
* Perks including access to retail, leisure, holiday and health discounts
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