Best Start in Life Inclusion Practitioner

As a Best Start in Life Inclusion Practitioner, you will play an important part in Surrey's ambition to give every child the best possible start in life. This new role will support children aged 0 to 5 who are not currently attending early years provision and who may have emerging developmental, SEND, health, communication, social or emotional needs. You will work directly with families using a strengths-based, person-centred approach, helping parents and carers understand their child's needs, access local support and plan positive next steps. This may include linking families with Early Help, Family Centres, health services, early years provision and other appropriate support. You will champion inclusive practice across Best Start in Life services, support early identification of additional needs, and work with families, colleagues and partners to reduce barriers, make reasonable adjustments and put practical strategies in place. Where appropriate, you may also contribute to planning around Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments and support positive transitions into nursery or school. Partnership working will be central to the role. You will build strong relationships with health, education, Family Centre, early years, SEND, Early Help, Local Offer and voluntary sector partners, while also contributing to service evaluation so we can continue to improve support for children and families across Surrey., 1. Tell us about a time you supported a family with a child aged 0 to 5 who needed additional support. What did you identify, what did you do, and what was the outcome? 2. What resources, services or information would you use to support a family whose child may have emerging developmental or additional needs? 3. Give an example of how you have worked with professionals, early years settings, community organisations or voluntary sector partners to support a child or family. 4. Describe a time you successfully engaged someone who was isolated, hesitant or difficult to reach. An enhanced DBS 'Disclosure and Barring Service' check for regulated activity (formerly known as CRB) and the Children's and Adults' Barred List checks will be required for this role.

We are looking for an experienced Early Years Practitioner to join our Family Help Partnership and Practice service as a Best Start in Life Inclusion Practitioner. This is a great opportunity for someone with experience of supporting children with additional needs and disabilities, and who is passionate about helping children and families access the right support at the right time.,

• A relevant Level 3 qualification, for example in Early Years, Education, Health or SEND, or equivalent experience.
• Experience of supporting children aged 0 to 5 and their families, with an understanding of child development, early identification and intervention.
• Understanding of SEND legislation, inclusive practice and how to respond to emerging or additional needs.
• Experience of working collaboratively with families, professionals and community partners, with strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Can confidently manage and prioritise a varied workload, using your own initiative while recognising when guidance or escalation is needed.
• Knowledge of Early Help, Surrey's Local Offer, Family Centres or the Family Hub model would be an advantage, as would coaching, workforce development or SENDCo experience.
  
  This permanent role has a starting salary of 34,660 per annum, based on a 36-hour working week., Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
• A generous local government salary related pension
• Up to 5 days of carer's leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
• An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
• Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
• Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
• A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents.