Early Years Inclusion Specialist

Darlington; Tees Valley; Hybrid; GBP 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Hybrid working

32 days annual leave

Local Government Pension Scheme

Cycle to Work

Job summary

Darlington Borough Council is recruiting a Best Start Inclusion Practitioner on a fixed-term basis until 31 March 2029. The role focuses on supporting families with children aged 0–5, across Best Start Family Hubs, delivering practical, inclusive early years help.

You will work closely with health visitors, early years staff and partners, guiding families, modelling play, removing access barriers and coordinating signposted support; 75% direct work with children and families.

Qualifications

• You will have a relevant Level 3 qualification or above and experience of working directly with children aged 0 to 5 and their families.
• You will understand child development and be able to turn that knowledge into practical, sensitive and helpful support.
• You will be someone who listens carefully and communicates with warmth and respect, recognises parents and carers as experts in their child.

Responsibilities

• Directly work with children and families across Family Hubs and community locations.
• Share practical ideas to support communication, play, interaction and home learning.
• Help families overcome barriers to participating in activities or accessing services.
• Coordinate support so families do not have to repeat their story; work with Health Visiting, Early Years Inclusion, SEND and partners.

Education

Level 3 qualification or above

Job description

Darlington Borough Council is recruiting a Best Start Inclusion Practitioner on a fixed-term basis until 31 March 2029. The role focuses on supporting families with children aged 0–5, across Best Start Family Hubs, delivering practical, inclusive early years help.

You will work closely with health visitors, early years staff and partners, guiding families, modelling play, removing access barriers and coordinating signposted support; 75% direct work with children and families.