Play Development Worker

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

Job summary

An early childhood education organization in Newry is seeking a Play Development Worker. This role emphasizes providing quality play opportunities and support for early years providers and families. Candidates should have an NVQ Level III or equivalent and experience with young children. The position offers a competitive salary and generous benefits, including 36 days of annual leave and a contributory pension scheme.

Benefits

36 days of annual leave

Contributory pension scheme

Access to healthcare schemes

Qualifications

• NVQ Level III in Health and Social Care or equivalent required.
• Two years of experience working with young children in a group setting.
• One year of experience planning and facilitating group activities.

Responsibilities

• Provide advice and support to early years providers.
• Support programmes across the SureStart area.

Skills

Experience with young children

Planning and facilitating group activities

Understanding of age-appropriate play

Knowledge of safeguarding/child protection

NVQ Level III or equivalent

Education

Degree in Early Childhood Care and Education or equivalent

Job description

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

Responsibilities

• The postholder will provide advice, information and support to early years providers, parents and carers on play development with young children.
• 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 licence 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

Salary: NJC Scale 5, Point 12-17 £27,711-£30,060 per annum pro rata. Tenure: Fixed Term until 30 June 2026 (Maternity Cover).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 closing date for receipt of completed applications is Tuesday 30 September 2025. For shortlisted applicants it is anticipated that interviews will take place on Friday 10 October 2025. Early 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.