---

Job description

The Playgroup Leader is responsible to the Management Committee. The Playgroup Leader will carry out his/her duties in line with the agreed policies and procedures of the Playgroup. The overall policies and procedures of the group will be laid down by the Management Committee whom the Leader is responsible. Within the terms of these policies, the Leader is responsible for the day-to-day running of the group and ensuring that there is a safe, caring and welcoming environment for children and their families. The Leader: Is responsible for calling regular weekly staff and planning meetings so that staff are fully aware of their roles/responsibilities and the progression of the pre-school curriculum throughout the year. Is responsible for the support and supervision of staff on a day-to-day basis and for the regular appraisal. In consultation with the staff at meetings, the Leader should ensure that planning and preparation is carried out and that the activities offered throughout the session allow the children to experience the full breadth of the curriculum as laid down in Department of Education Guidance for Pre-School Education. Should ensure that the playroom is appropriately laid out before the session commences and is tidied up after the session ends. The Leader is also responsible for ensuring good standards of hygiene are followed and that equipment is safe and regularly checked as recommended in DHSSPS guidelines. In conjunction with the staff team, will carry our regular observations and make an assessment of each child’s needs within the group and plan daily to meet these needs. Is responsible for keeping up-to-date records as stipulated by DHSSPS and the Department of Education. Will encourage the active participation of all parents/carers by seeking their involvement in their children’s learning. Will ensure all parents/ carers are kept fully informed of their child’s overall development within the group. Will liaise with, inform and support the management committee with the organisation of special events, outings, visits and fundraising activities. Will consult with the management committee to agree changes in procedures and practice. Will present a leader’s report to management committee meetings and the Annual General Meeting of the playgroup. Should bring to the attention of the management committee any matter for which she is responsible. Should keep strictly confidential any personal information regarding the children, their families or other staff which she/he learns as part of her/his job. Such information should only be passed on in the interests of a child. If the Leader needs advice on such matters, then she/he should contact the EARLY YEARS advisor or registering social worker. Attends relevant, ongoing training courses and evening meetings. Should be available to attend other relevant duties.

Responsibilities

• Ensuring the overall safety and well-being of the children.
• Providing a caring and stimulating environment for the children.
• Recruitment and induction of new staff in conjunction with management committee.
• Supervising staff on a day-to-day basis. Calling and chairing staff meetings and supervising students and volunteers attached to the playgroup.
• Carrying out staff appraisals.
• Ensuring that good standards of health and safety are maintained.
• Keeping up-to-date records: daily register of attendance, an accident book, a plan of group activities, a petty cash book and records required by social services and Department of Education, confidential information on the welfare of the children.
• Presenting a leader’s report to management committee meetings and at the Annual General Meeting of the playgroup.
• Actively involve parents/carers through a variety of methods.
• Keeping parents/carers up-to-date on their child’s progress.
• Keeping a waiting list and admitting children when vacancies occur in keeping with the group’s policy.
• Organising and taking part in special events and group outings.
• Liaising with other relevant professionals.
• Ensuring the implementation of the written policies and procedures of the group.
• Attending to any other reasonable duties relevant to the post.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• QCF Level 5 Diploma in Child Care, Learning and Development or Play work or a relevant occupational qualification in early years’ education, social work, nursing, teaching or health. visiting
• 2 years’ experience working in play, education, youth or day care setting.