Flying Start Senior Practitioner

Newport City Council; Newport; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in Wales is seeking a Flying Start Senior Practitioner to work 35 hours a week supporting children aged 0-3 years. The ideal candidate will be Level 4/5 qualified in Childcare with strong communication skills and experience in childcare settings. This fixed-term role offers an opportunity to make a significant impact in early years development. Applications are welcome in both Welsh and English, and the role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Qualifications

• Minimum level 2 standard literacy tested at interview.
• Experience working with children 0-3 years old.
• Experience in Flying Start Settings or similar desirable.

Responsibilities

• Promote vision and values of the Flying Start programme.
• Work with parents, carers, and key staff.
• Maintain observations and development records for children.

Skills

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Knowledge of child development

Team management

IT skills (Microsoft Word & Excel)

Education

Level 4/5 Qualified in Childcare

Job description

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Flying Start Senior Practitioner

Job information

Post No. LEICY100011.2 - Flying Start Senior Practitioner

Level 4/5 Qualified (CCLD, NVQ or similar) in accordance with the QCF

Fixed Term until March 2026 (Extension of contract subject to further funding from the Welsh Government)

1 x 18 hours 42 weeks of the year

Flying Start is an initiative from the Welsh Assembly Government, aimed at making a positive difference for the better to the life chances of children 0-3 years old, to ensure they have a flying start in life.

The Newport Flying Start Team are seeking to appoint enthusiastic and reliable Senior Practitioner to work in partnership with Senior Practitioners, key staff, parents and carers to promote the vision and values of the Flying Start programme. The posts will be 35 hours a week (Monday-Friday)

The candidates will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as genuine commitment to the care and development of very young children. The candidates will possess level 2 standard literacy as a minimum (tested at interview process via short assessment, if required)

A relevant Childcare qualification such as CCLD Level 4/5, considerable current experience of working within Flying Start Childcare Settings as well as with under 2's/playgroup/nursery children and a thorough knowledge of child development & CIW Child Care Policies and Practice is essential. Experience or relevant qualifications in IT such as Microsoft Word & Excel and are required in order to develop learning journals for each child and to maintain observations/recording of each child's development and for budget management. Experience of Flying Start Settings or similar is desirable. Experience of managing a small team essential.

Due to the nature of the role, the post-holder will be required to take annual leave at times which coincide with Flying Start closures. The appointment process will involve an interview with senior members of the Flying Start Team and a scenario task on the day.

For more information, please contact Michelle Ball, Early Years & Childcare Team Leader on 07980908298

Closing Date: 16.12.2025

This position is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and is subject to an enhanced DBS check

We welcome applications for all our jobs in either Welsh or English. An application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.

Newport City Council is committed to working towards its workforce being more representative of the population that we serve and particularly welcomes applications from people from minority ethnic communities represented (or living) in the city. Selection will be made on ability and skills to undertake the role.

Newport City Council is not currently supporting applicants with sponsorship for right to work. In applying for a vacancy, applicants should already have the right to work in the UK.

Our values - Fairness for all, Making a difference, Being responsible, Working together

Ein gwerthoedd - Ein Gwerthoedd, Tegwch i Bawb, Gwneud Gwahaniaeth, Bod yn Gyfrifol, Gweithio gyda'n gilydd