Kilbride Playgroup has been part of the rural community for over 40 years and is committed to delivering excellent outcomes for children. We pride ourselves on creating any environment where children are happy, safe, and supported to reach their full potential. Our staff team is our most valuable resource in achieving this. We are looking for individuals who are child-centred and willing to go the extra mile to ensure every child has the best possible start.
Purpose of the Job
To work as part of the playgroup team, providing effective management and leadership to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality care and education for pre-school and pre-pre-school children. To fulfil all legal and statutory requirements and to contribute to and implement the playgroup’s policies and procedures.
The overall policies and procedures of the group are set by the Management Committee, to whom the Manager/Leader is accountable. Within this framework, the Manager/Leader is responsible for the day-to-day running of the setting, ensuring a safe, caring, and welcoming environment for all children and their families.
Roles and Responsibilities:
- To work with the Management Committee will attend and present a written report to Committee meetings (bi-monthly) and the Annual General Meeting of the playgroup.
- To bring to the attention of the Chairperson or deputy any matter for which it is responsible. The Manager/Leader should, however, keep strictly confidential any personal information regarding the children, their families or other staff which they learn about as part of his/her job. Such information should only be passed on in the interests of a child. If the Manager/Leader needs advice on such matters, then she/he should contact the Early Years adviser or registering social worker.
- To ensure that the playgroup is a safe environment for children, that equipment is safe, standards of hygiene are high, and safety procedures are implemented at all times.
- To keep up-to-date records as stipulated by Social Services and the requirements of the Management Committee of the group (e.g. waiting lists, daily registers, accident book and observations of children’s progress).
- To maintain the playgroup billing system, keep a waiting list and admit children when vacancies occur in keeping with day care admission policy.
- To set up playgroup activity equipment before the children arrive at the playgroup and tidy away equipment at the end of the playgroup session.
- To lead on playgroup activities and offer appropriate stimulation and support to the children.
- To lead on the planning, preparation and implementation of the Day Care programme and all special events, outings and visits.
- To be available to attend any other reasonable duties relevant to the post.
- To work closely with the children, other members of staff and parents.
- To help ensure there is a good, happy and positive atmosphere at all sessions.
- To take time to listen and respond to children, encourage participation and support them in their development.
- To maintain equality of opportunity for all children within the playgroup
- To support and supervision of staff on a day-to-day basis, regular one-to-one meetings and working with the Management Committee for the regular annual appraisal of staff.
- To ensure that planning and preparation is carried out and that the activities offered throughout the session allow the children to experience the full breadth of the curriculum as laid down.
- To work with the Management Committee is responsible for ensuring the implementation of a development plan and long term (each term), medium term (weekly) and short term (daily) planning for the curriculum.
- To work with the Management Committee is responsible for ensuring the yearly review and implementation of the Child Protection Policy.
- To be responsible for calling regular BI-WEEKLY staff and planning meetings in order that staff will be fully aware of their roles and the progression of the play curriculum throughout the year.
- To support the staff in providing a stimulating and varied programme of play, to enhance each child's abilities in a way which ensures the safety and well-being of the children always.
- To work in conjunction with the Committee, recruiting. selecting and training the staff.
- To monitor and keeping simple records of staff members' annual leave, time in lieu and sickness leave.
- To undertake budgeting responsibilities, including knowledge of welfare rights and benefits for parents/carers, and to oversee the purchasing and delivery of equipment and resources as required.
- To ensure fire drills are carried out and recorded, and to ensure observance of the No Smoking Policy.
- The Manager/Leader should bring any matters of concern to the attention of the Chairperson or Deputy of any matter requiring attention, such as replacement or repairs to equipment, changes in staff.
- To maintain an appropriate First Aid Certificate and/or Basic Food Hygiene Certificate.
- To act as Designated Child Protection Officer working with Child Protection Procedures as appropriate, reporting on child/abuse/neglect/bullying and implementing delegated tasks within the Child Protection Policy and Procedures.
- To read and be familiar with the playgroup’s policies and the statutory requirements for sessional care.
- To attend appropriate in-service training; course fees may be considered by Management Committee.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
- Level 5 (or Level 3 with willingness to work towards Level 5) qualification in Childcare/Early Years or equivalent.
- A minimum of two years’ paid experience working in an early year setting
For more information contact us for Job description, Person specification and application form.
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent
Pay: From £15.00 per hour
Expected hours: 22.0 per week
Experience:
- Early childhood education: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 15/06/2026
Expected start date: 01/09/2026
