Horizon Sure Start Larne

We are recruiting an Early Years Practitioner for our 2-3 year old Programme based in St. Anthony's Primary School, Larne.

Horizon Sure Start supports families with children under the age of 4 living in the Sure Start wards of Carrickfergus and Larne.

We have a multi - disciplinary team. we aim to improve the ability to learn by encouraging stimulating play and improving language skills.

We're looking for enthusiastic, compassionate, and committed individuals who wants to make a genuine impact in children's early years and wants to work closely in a team to offer the developmental programme to children aged 2 and 3.

About the Role

Your role will include:

Supporting the Developmental Programme for 2–3-Year-Olds, running three 2.5-hour sessions weekly (September–June)
Building trusted relationships with families, including conducting home visits
Running parents workshops and stay and play sessions monthly
Promoting positive play, early learning, andsocial development
Key worker to 4 children and their families
Recording, observations and planning
Working collaboratively with colleagues to ensure the highest standards of care

Essential Criteria:

NVQ Level 3 or above in Childcare
demonstrable experience of working with children 0-4 in a pre-school setting
Experience communicating effectively with parents/carers regarding children's needs
Full, current driving licence and access to a car (business insurance required).
Applicants with a disability preventing driving may provide evidence of alternative mobility arrangements.

A waiting list of Reserve candidates will be held in the event that similar vacancies arise during the next 12 months

If this role is of interest to you, then please apply and we look forward to hearing from you.

Please read the Job Description and Additional Information Page for the in-depth responsibilities of this role, and when completing your application link please refer to you Skills, Knowledge and Experience in these areas and with a understanding of the context of this role.

Applicants must demonstrate how they meet the Essential criteria when completing the application form to secure an interview.

Barnardo's offers extensive training and professional development opportunities, supporting your continued growth and progression within the organisation. You will also benefit from a comprehensive range of staff perks and benefits, including generous annual leave, access to health and wellbeing support, pension contributions, and more.

If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we warmly encourage you to apply.

Contact Details: recruitment.supportteam@barnardos.org.uk

The successful candidate will also be required to undertake an Enhanced Access NI with Child Barred List check.

values

People & Culture

Workplace Offer: What it means for you

The ability to buy up to another 5 days annual leave via our Buy Your Leave scheme
Service related sick pay from day 1
Cycle2work scheme
Interest free season ticket loans
20% discount at Barnardo's stores
Opportunity to purchase a health cash plan to claim towards dental, glasses, therapy etc
Free access to round the clock employee assistance program for advice and support
Access to Barnardo's Learning and Development offer

*T&C's apply based on contract

Reference number:23217
Job Title:Early Years Practitioner
Location:Larne
Locality:NI Western
Contract type:Fixed term
End date:30th June 2027
Hours:20 hours per week (Term Time) (Monday to Thursday, 9:00am to 2:00pm)
Salary:£26,666.86 (FTE) (12,309.60 pro rata)
Closing Date:28 July 2026
Interview Date:TBC

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