Sector Support and Development Consultant

We have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic Sector Support and Development Consultant to join our Early Years and Childcare Support Team on a three year fixed term contract. Due to recent changes in immigration law in the UK we are unable to offer skilled worker visa sponsorship for this role as it does not meet the requirements. The government's Plan for Change places children at the heart of its priorities, with the ambition that a record proportion of children start school ready to learn by 2028.

This ambition, set out in Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life (July 2025), underpins our work across Lincolnshire. As a Sector Support and Development Consultant, you will work directly with early years and childcare providers across Lincolnshire to support the effective and safe delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). You will play a key role in helping settings meet the statutory safeguarding and welfare requirements set out in Section 3 of the EYFS, supporting the creation of high-quality, welcoming and safe environments for children.

Key Responsibilities Support early years and childcare settings to meet statutory requirements, with a particular focus on safeguarding and child protection Promote a strong culture of vigilance to help keep children safe Support settings to navigate and understand the Early Years Ofsted Inspection Toolkit Deliver training to providers across the sector Complete audits, quality reviews and improvement work with early years settings and out-of-school settings Work collaboratively with the Early Years and Childcare Support Team, Family Help Consultants and other partner professionals Build positive, trusting relationships within the early years and childcare sector to support a sector-led improvement model Contribute to improved educational outcomes for young children across Lincolnshire We're seeking a motivated and knowledgeable professional who can demonstrate: A degree, or equivalent experience and capability to work at degree level A current and relevant Level 3 (or above) childcare qualification, together with experience of leading and managing teams Extensive knowledge of the 0 to 11 age range, including current childcare legislation, child development, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and the Childcare Register A strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities A strong understanding of the Early Years Ofsted Inspection Toolkit Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage changing priorities and respond effectively to a fast-paced environment Confidence in delivering training, providing professional support and challenge, and building positive relationships with a range of childcare providers A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, with an understanding of their application within childcare, education and service delivery settings The ability to work effectively in situations of ambiguity and change A collaborative approach and a commitment to improving outcomes for children and families through partnership working A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle, as regular travel across Lincolnshire is required