Early Years Support Worker, Barnsley

Vitalis; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Early Years Support Worker in Barnsley. You'll work in family homes supporting children with developmental needs. Candidates should hold a relevant qualification, have DBS clearance, and experience with both adults and children. This role offers a pay rate of up to £23.86 per hour and focuses on collaborative planning and play-based interaction.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of the Foundation Stage and child development.
• Experience working with both adults and children.
• Enhanced DBS required.

Responsibilities

• Work independently in family homes as part of the Portage service.
• Support children with developmental delays and special needs.
• Plan small, achievable developmental goals.

Skills

Understanding of child development

Family engagement

Assessment skills

Hands-on engagement

Education

Relevant Early Years qualification

Job description

Early Years Support Worker, Barnsley

Pay rate to £23.86 per hour

Contract role

We are recruiting for an experienced Early Years Support Worker to work in a team in Barnsley.

Job Purpose

• Early Years Experience: Strong understanding of the Foundation Stage and child development, particularly with children aged 0–5 (predominantly 0–3).
• Home Visiting Role: Working independently in family homes as part of the Portage service, supporting children with developmental delays, health issues, and special needs.
• Family-Centered Approach: Non-directive, family-led support. Practitioners must be confident engaging with families, identifying concerns, and collaboratively planning developmental goals.
• Child Development Assessment: Skilled in assessing developmental stages and planning small, achievable next steps. Confident in play‑based interaction and modelling engagement strategies for parents.
• Hands‑On Engagement: Comfortable working directly with children, including those with physical, communication, or health needs. Ability to create a safe, secure environment for families.
• Transition Support: Supporting children through transitions in their development or care.

Essential Criteria

• Relevant Early Years qualification.
• Must drive and have access to own vehicle.
• Experience working with both adults and children.
• Enhanced DBS required.

Don’t forget, if this role isn’t the perfect fit, we’re confident we can find one that is. We recruit across a wide range of public sector specialisms, including:

Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO)

• Best Interest Assessor (BIA)
• Multi‑Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)
• Looked After Children (LAC)
• Children’s Social Work
• Adult Social Work
• Service Manager
• Head of Service
• Team Manager
• Assistant Team Manager
• A wide range of housing roles
• Careers in SEND in local authorities

Let us help you take the next step in your career. Get in touch with me today to explore our exciting opportunities!

Contact me on [e-mail] or 07521053670 for more information.