We have an exciting opportunity for a motivated and innovative Childcare Development Project Officer to join our Early years team
This role will support the local authority’s strategic ambition to ensure that all children and families have access to high-quality, inclusive, affordable, and sustainable childcare provision. You will lead the development, coordination, and implementation of key childcare programmes and statutory responsibilities, helping to transform childcare services for children aged 4–11 years.
About the Role
As Childcare Development Project Officer, you will:
- Will support the local authority’s strategic and operational responsibilities for school-age childcare.
- Ensure compliance with statutory duties under the Childcare Act 2006 and 2016.
- Drive the delivery of national childcare programmes including:
- Wraparound Childcare Expansion Programme
- Free Breakfast Clubs Programme
- Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme
- Childcare Sufficiency Assessment and Market Management
- Local Authority Capacity Support Funding
- Work collaboratively with schools, childcare providers, academy trusts, community organisations and local partners.
- Monitor childcare sufficiency, identify gaps in provision and develop solutions to increase capacity.
- Manage projects, budgets, grants and performance reporting requirements.
- Support the government's ambition that by 2026 all parents who need childcare can access provision from 8am–6pm during term time.
About You
We are seeking a dynamic professional who:
- Has knowledge of childcare, education, family support or related public sector services.
- Understands partnership working and stakeholder engagement.
- Can analyse data and use evidence to inform service planning and decision-making.
- Has excellent communication, influencing and organisational skills.
- Is committed to improving outcomes for children, families and communities.
Experience of working within local government, education, childcare, early help or children's services would be advantageous.