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Job description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed Deputy Preschool 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 Preschool 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

• Supporting Daily Operations:
• 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.
• Safeguarding, Care & Record-keeping:
• 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.
• Family & Community Engagement:
• 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.
• Leadership Duties (When the Leader is Absent):
• 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

• Level 5 Early Years qualification OR Level 3 (CCLD or equivalent) with willingness to register for Level 5 within the first year.
• Minimum 2 years’ paid experience working with children in an Early Years setting.
• Good understanding of child development and the needs of young children.
• Good team player.
• Knowledge of the NI Preschool Curriculum and child development.
• Understanding of safeguarding procedures.
• Commitment to professional development.

Desirable Skills

• BA (Early Childhood Studies) or Level 5 Early Years qualification.
• Training in Early Years management, observation, or record-keeping.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively.

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 Friday 12th June 2026. 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.