Our client currently manages a morning drop-in centre for children and parents in Hampstead Heath and Gospel Oak. They are now looking to develop these facilities in addition to a private nursery for 3-4 year olds and a pilot project for 2 year olds from September 2010. This post offers a unique opportunity for an ambitious and passionate individual to develop new and existing facilities combining both operational duties with strategic oversight of our children’s services. The opportunity for a full-time contract is likely after a 3 month probationary period.
The Children’s Services Manager will be responsible for the
daily running of an array of facilities for under 5 year olds, ensuring that
all services are efficiently managed and comply with all relevant policies and
legislation within the requirements of Ofsted guidelines.
KEY DUTIES
· Management of existing children’s services as part of
a SureStart contract;
To act as the Lead Worker ensuring that Early Years
Foundation Stage goals are achieved and recorded for all young people;
To actively promote all children’s services and
oversee marketing and outreach in the local community as well as provide
representation at appropriate events, conferences and seminars
· To compile statistical reports for the Director and
complete monitoring reports for external funders
· To liaise with the Director and Finance Officer in
the management of finances
Personnel
· To coordinate and manage staff rotas
· To recruitment, induct and supervise of staff,
including staff appraisals and assessments
· To arrange and lead regular briefings and meetings
with front-line staff
· To support the continuous professional development of
key workers
Health & Safety
· To undertake and maintain records of regular risk
assessments
· To monitor all child protection issues and keep a log
of any accident or incident
· To arrange for effective and regular waste removal
· To ensure that all front-line staff maintain the
personal hygiene of children
· To ensure that the preparation and cleanliness of
nursery playrooms, bedding, nappy-changing room, food-serving areas and
equipment is carried out in accordance with set policies and procedures
· To maintain proper emergency and security procedures
including the registration and collection of children
Client Care & External Relationships
· To develop positive relationships with parents, staff
members and external agencies through regular communication, parents’ open-days
and surgeries
· To plan and recruit a parents’ steering group for
regular consultation
· To respond to parental complaints and/or issues and
take remedial action as necessary
Security & Equipment
· To establish and maintain an inventory of all
resources available
· To oversee the care, maintenance and security of all
equipment and toys
General
· To attend Senior Management and Staff meetings, as
required
· To offer an equal opportunities service with regard
to race, gender, culture, faith and/or disability
· To undertake any additional tasks related to the
effective delivery of the Children’s Services Strategy.
