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Job description

The Deputy Leader will support the Leader in the running of the Preschool to ensure safe, stimulating play in a safe, caring and welcoming environment for children and their families in line with the Department of Health’s Minimum Standards for Children under age 12, the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Full job details & person specification listed in the Application Pack. This list of responsibilities is not exhaustive and the Deputy Leader may be expected to take on other reasonable duties as assigned by the Preschool Leader.

Responsibilities

• In the absence of the Leader, the deputy will take full responsibility for all aspects of the operation of the Preschool, including the role of Designated Child Protection Officer.
• In conjunction with the Leader, ensure that all required standards, ratios and conditions of registration are maintained at all times with the centre.
• Ensure that high standards of safety, security, hygiene, cleanliness and tidiness are always maintained and that the building and resources are treated with respect by children and staff.
• Assist the Leader in monitoring and controlling all costs within the centre.
• Offer appropriate support to key workers of children with special and additional needs.
• Liaise with the Local Authority and other professionals associated with the Preschool, including networking with outside agencies and funding bodies.
• Work in partnership with parents/ carers and families. The Deputy Leader must be approachable, friendly and able to communicate effectively at all times.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• A qualification at QCF Level 5 Diploma in Child Care Learning and Development or Playwork or an equivalent occupational qualification in early years education, social work, nursing, teaching or health visiting.
• Or A qualification at QCF Level 3 Diploma in Child Care Learning and Development AND willing to enrol for QCF Level 5 Diploma in Child Care Learning and Development by September/October 2026 and complete it within agreed timeframe (normally 2 years).
• Confirmation of enrolment MUST be provided before being confirmed in the Deputy Preschool Assistant role.
• A minimum of 2 years’ paid experience working with children.

Desirable Skills

• Willing to work within the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

Further Information

Application for this post is by Application Form only. Completed Application Forms must be received by 12 noon on Friday 7 August 2026. CVs and late applications will not be considered. In addition to the daily hours stated, the Deputy Preschool Leader works an additional hour per week to complete admin and IT tasks. This is worked at a mutually convenient time. The Deputy Preschool Leader works Term Time only and is paid for 38 weeks plus 28 days holidays which means that the post holder is paid for 43.6 weeks in total. Applicants should be aware that - in line with Department of Education policy and increased funded Preschool provision - working hours may increase from September 2027.