Play Development Worker

Early Years; Dungannon; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused early childhood organization in Dungannon is seeking a Play Development Worker to offer quality play opportunities for preschool children and support early years programmes. Candidates should have NVQ Level III in Health and Social Care or equivalent, along with relevant experience in early childhood settings. This permanent position offers a salary range of £27,711 to £30,060, along with generous leave and benefits.

Benefits

36 days of annual leave (pro rata)

Contributory pension scheme

Access to healthcare schemes

Qualifications

• Two years’ experience working with young children in an early year's group-based setting.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of age-appropriate quality play.
• Full current driving license enabling to drive in NI.

Responsibilities

• Offer quality play opportunities to preschool children.
• Support programmes across the SureStart area.
• Provide advice and support on play development.

Skills

Experience with young children

Understanding of safeguarding issues

Experience in planning group activities

Education

NVQ Level III in Health and Social Care

Degree in Early Childhood Care and Education

Job description

As Play Development Worker you will be required to offer quality play opportunities to pre-school children.

Responsibilities

• They will also support a range of programmes across the SureStart area.

Skills and Qualifications

• An NVQ Level III in Health and Social Care or NVQ Level III in Early Years Care and Education or Level III Award in Community Development or equivalent.
• Two years’ experience working with young children in an early year's group-based setting.
• One year’s experience of planning and facilitating group activities to support children, parents and families.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of age-appropriate quality play for a child’s development.
• An understanding of safeguarding/child protection issues and procedures.
• A full current driving license enabling the holder to drive in NI and have the use of a vehicle for official purposes or have access to a form of transport that will enable the candidate to meet the requirements of the post in full.
• A degree in Early Childhood Care and Education, Health and Social Care, Community Development or equivalent.

Further Information

Join Early Years the organisation for young children as Play Development WorkerLocation: Dungannon and Coalisland SureStartHours: 30 hours per weekTenure: PermanentSalary: NJC Scale 5, Point 12 to 17, (£27,711 to £30,060) per annum pro rataDo you have a passion for making a meaningful impact in early childhood education? Do you believe in the power of play to unlock potential? Be part of our team and help shape the futures of children by fostering growth and learning through purposeful opportunities.At Early Years, we are committed to fostering growth for both the children and our staff. Joining means an opportunity to enhance your skills, make a meaningful difference, and collaborate with a team that upholds dedication, compassion, and excellence in early years care and education.In return, Early Years provides a comprehensive rewards package, including a competitive salary, 36 days of annual leave (pro rata), inclusive of statutory/public holidays, a contributory pension scheme, options to purchase additional leave, and access to healthcare schemes.The roleThe postholder will provide advice, information and support to early years providers, parents and carers on play development with young children.The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Thursday 9 October 2025.For shortlisted applicants it is anticipated that interviews will take place on Friday 24 October 2025.A reserve list may be held for a period of up to six months for the same or similar roles, if this applies to you, we’ll let you know via email.Should you need to contact us, please use the following methods:Email: [e-mail]: 028 9038 7905Early Years is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to providing flexible friendly working conditions. As Protestants and males are currently known to be under represented in the Organisation, we would particularly welcome applications from these groups.