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Job description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed Deputy Playgroup Leader to support the Leader in providing high quality care and education, and to help ensure the smooth running of our daily sessions. The Deputy Leader supports the Playgroup Leader in delivering a safe, nurturing, stimulating environment where children can thrive. This role involves helping organise daily routines, supervising staff, engaging with parents, and contributing to planning, assessment, and curriculum delivery. The Deputy Leader will also assume full responsibility for the setting in the Leader’s absence.

Responsibilities

• Set up and tidy the playroom daily, maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety.
• Check equipment regularly in line with DHSSPS guidelines and report any issues.
• Contribute to staff meetings and curriculum planning.
• Carry out observations, assessments, and daily planning to meet children’s needs.
• Support children’s learning by listening, encouraging, and enabling exploration.
• Ensure children’s safety, wellbeing, and supervision at all times.
• Maintain up to date records, including those required by DHSSPS and the Department of Education.
• Maintain confidentiality, sharing information only when necessary in the child’s best interests.
• Encourage parent involvement and keep parents informed about their child’s development.
• Participate in two parent consultations per year.
• Assist with events, outings, visits, and fundraising activities.
• Take full responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of the children.
• Lead weekly staff and planning meetings.
• Support and supervise staff daily; participate in staff appraisals.
• Oversee student and volunteer supervision.
• Maintain registers, accident books, planning documents, and financial records.
• Prepare and present reports to the committee and AGM.
• Support recruitment and induction of new staff when required.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• QCF level 5 in Early Years or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 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.
• Strong understanding of child development and the needs of young children.
• Leadership skills and ability to work well within a team
• Knowledge of the NI Preschool Curriculum and child development.
• Understanding of safeguarding procedures.
• Confident ICT user (Microsoft Office, social media, newsletters).
• Commitment to professional development.
• Understanding of regulatory/inspection processes.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with Tapestry System
• Additional training (e.g., SEN, Speech & Language, behaviour).
• Up to date training in safeguarding, food hygiene, paediatric first aid, anaphylaxis, and health & safety.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Confidence working with external professionals and agencies.

Further Information

What We Offer - Competitive salary - Ongoing professional development and training opportunities. - Support from an active and engaged Management Committee. - Opportunities to contribute to the future growth and direction of the playgroup. To Apply: If this role appeals to you, please submit your CV along with a covering letter explaining how you meet the above criteria to ahoghillplaygroupmanagement@gmail.com by 12pm on Monday 16th February. Ahoghill Playgroup reserves the right to enhance the criteria in the event of an unprecedented response. Ahoghill Playgroup is an equal opportunities employer and will consider reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.