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Job description

As Early Years Assistant (BANK) you will ensure children attending the SureStart programmes have the best start in life by providing a safe, welcoming, high quality, inclusive early education environment, working to improve the ability to learn, improve health and social development of children, ante-natal to four years of age.

Responsibilities

• To work in partnership with families to promote and facilitate positive parenting and the enhancement of the role of parents as ‘first educators’.
• The post holder is required innovatively to support and extend play experiences to ensure early outcomes are achieved.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• NVQ Level II in Early Years Care and Education or equivalent.
• One year's experience working with young children in a paid, voluntary or training/placement capacity.

Desirable Skills

• NVQ III in Early Years Care and Education or equivalent.
• A full and current driving licence enabling the post holder to drive in NI and have the use of a vehicle for official purposes or have access to a form of transport that will enable the candidate to meet the requirements of the post in full.

Further Information

Join Early Years the organisation for young children as Early Years Assistant (BANK) Location: Newry SureStart, Newry Hours: As and when required Salary: £13.45 per hour Do you have a passion for making a meaningful impact in early childhood education? Do you believe in the power of play to unlock potential? Be part of our team and help shape the futures of children by fostering growth and learning through purposeful opportunities. At Early Years, we are committed to fostering growth for both the children and our staff. Joining means an opportunity to enhance your skills, make a meaningful difference, and collaborate with a team that upholds dedication, compassion, and excellence in early years care and education. In return, Early Years provides a comprehensive rewards package, including a competitive salary, 36 days of annual leave (pro-rata), inclusive of statutory/public holidays, a contributory pension scheme, options to purchase additional leave, and access to healthcare schemes. The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Wednesday 29 April 2026. For shortlisted applicants it is anticipated that interviews will take place on Wednesday 13 May 2026. A reserve list may be held for a period of up to six months for the same or similar roles, if this applies to you, we’ll let you know via email. Should you need to contact us, please use the following methods: Email: monitoringofficer@early-years.org Phone: 028 9066 2825 Option 5 Early Years is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to providing flexible friendly working conditions. As Protestants and males are currently known to be under-represented in the Organisation, we would particularly welcome applications from these groups.