EARLY YEARS HEAD OF SERVICE

HIJOBS; Lochgilphead; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare organization in Lochgilphead is searching for a Head of Service (Early Years) to lead a team and ensure high-quality childcare. The ideal candidate will have management experience in early years, strong leadership skills, and a relevant degree. Responsibilities include staff development, compliance with regulatory standards, and effective communication with stakeholders. This full-time position offers a competitive salary ranging from £42,000 to £46,000 depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Proven management experience within an early years setting.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of national early years frameworks and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to manage resources, budgets, and staff effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead, support, and motivate a team of practitioners.
• Develop policies and improvement plans.
• Ensure compliance with regulations.
• Build relationships with parents and external agencies.
• Manage budgets and staffing effectively.

Skills

Management experience

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Knowledge of early years frameworks

Resource management

Education

BA Childhood Practice

Registration with SSSC

Job description

Overview

Head of Service (Early Years) – Location: Lochgilphead, Argyll & Bute. Reports to: Nursery Owner/Board of Directors. Hours: Full-time. Salary: 42,000 - 46,000 DOE.

Responsibilities

• Leadership & Management
  • Lead, support, and motivate a team of practitioners to deliver high-quality early learning and childcare.
  • Develop and implement policies, procedures, and improvement plans in line with Care Inspectorate standards, SSSC requirements, and national guidance.
  • Oversee staff development, supervision, appraisal, and training.
• Quality & Compliance
  • Ensure the nursery provides a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment in line with Curriculum for Excellence and Realising the Ambition.
  • Maintain compliance with Care Inspectorate regulations and SSSC codes of practice.
  • Monitor and evaluate practice to ensure continuous improvement.
• Communication & Partnership
  • Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and families to support each child’s learning journey.
  • Act as the main point of contact with local authority representatives, health professionals, and other external agencies.
  • Communicate effectively with staff, parents, and stakeholders, ensuring transparency and collaboration.
• Operational & Strategic Duties
  • Manage budgets, staffing rotas, and resource allocation effectively.
  • Support recruitment and induction of new staff members.
  • Lead improvement planning to ensure the nursery continues to grow and excel.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications & Registration

• BA Childhood Practice (or equivalent degree in Early Years/Childhood Practice).
• Registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) (or willingness to register upon appointment).

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven management experience within an early years setting.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of national early years frameworks and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to manage resources, budgets, and staff effectively.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience working within Argyll & Bute or similar rural communities.
• Experience leading change and implementing quality improvement strategies.