PRE-SCHOOL DEPUTY LEADER

Salary: £14.47 per hour

Hours: 25 per week Monday – Friday 8:30am to 1:30pm

Start date: Monday 24st August 2026

We are currently recruiting for a Pre-school Leader at Rainbow Corner Moira on a fixed term contract for the 2026-27 academic year with the possibility of extension. The extension of the contract will be reviewed annually.

The ethos at Rainbow Corner Pre-School and Playgroup is to provide an inclusive environment in which all children, parents and staff feel comfortable, secure and happy. We pride ourselves on our supportive and friendly working environment and we have a dedicated and passionate team.

Key responsibilities

  • Responsible for supporting the Pre-school Leader with the management daily running of the Pre-school.
  • To ensure stimulating play in a safe, caring and welcoming environment for children and their families in line with Department of Health Minimum Standards.
  • Contributing to short and medium-term planning for the Pre-school and develop play-based activities appropriate for children aged 2 years 10 months to 4 years.
  • To act as a key worker to a group of pre-school children.
  • The assessment, monitoring and recording of individual children’s development.
  • To help develop the Pre-school in terms of reputation and growth.
  • To participate in Pre-school fundraising events.

Essential criteria

  • A relevant childcare qualification at QCF Level 5 (Diploma in Childcare, Learning Development (Management) or equivalent (or working towards).
  • Experience of working with children in an early years setting in a paid capacity.
  • Experience of observation, planning and record keeping.
  • Experience of working with children with a range of additional needs.
  • A genuine passion for nurturing children’s growth and development.

Desirable criteria

  • Experience as a Deputy Leader or in a managerial role
  • Experience working within Minimum Standards and the Early Years Foundation Stage framework.
  • Safeguarding training
  • Paediatric First Aid training
  • Food hygiene training
  • Strong communication skills to be able to effectively interact with children, parents and colleagues.
  • Assessing situations and showing initiative by taking action independently.
  • A willingness to learn and undertake further training as required.

This role is subject to an enhanced background check (Access NI and Social Services) and two current references will be needed (one of which should be from a present or most recent employer).

Rainbow Corner Pre-School and Playgroup is committed to providing equality of opportunity for all children and families and works in accordance with all relevant legislation. The Pre-school and Playgroup will appoint the best person for the position and will treat all applicants fairly.

Commitment to implementing Rainbow Corner’s Equal Opportunities Policy will form part of the job description for all workers.

Completed applications should be returned by 12 noon on Friday 24th July 2026. Please send your CV and cover note to rainbowmoira@gmail.com.

Interviews are likely to be held at Rainbow Corner Preschool the week commencing 10th August 2026.