Childcare Improvement & Sufficiency Officer

We are delighted to offer an exciting opportunity to join our Early Years, Inclusion and Childcare Service as a Childcare Improvement & Sufficiency Officer on a one-year fixed-term basis (or secondment opportunity). About the Role This is a fantastic opportunity to become part of a highly skilled and enthusiastic team. You will play a key role in supporting new childcare providers through the Ofsted registration process, as well as working with existing school-age childcare settings to ensure the delivery of high-quality provision. You will also need to be willing to travel to appointments and a range of venues as required.,

• To support new providers entering the childcare market to ensure there are sufficient childcare places to meet the needs and families in Leicestershire (including those who have additional needs) to meet the Local Authorities statutory duty in relation to 'Expanded Entitlements, School based nurseries and Wraparound Care'.
• To coordinate and implement a package of advice, support and guidance to ensure those entering the childcare market are offering high quality provision.
• To disseminate key safeguarding messages and information on statutory legal requirements to providers.
• To develop high quality out of School provision, by securing information, advice and training as set out in the local authority's statutory duty.
An enhanced with barred list DBS check is required for this post. For information on our approach to the recruitment of ex-offenders, please see our .


• A relevant Level 6 qualification (e.g. Qualified Teacher Status, Early Years Professional) or equivalent demonstrable experience.
• A strong track record of delivering high-quality childcare practice, with experience of observing provision, evaluating learning, and providing constructive feedback to support continuous improvement.
• In-depth knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), including statutory welfare requirements, alongside a sound understanding of playwork principles and their application in childcare settings.
• A thorough understanding of safeguarding requirements for children and young people.
• Extensive knowledge of EYFS statutory requirements and wider legislation relevant to childcare provider registration.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to actively listen, build trust and respect, and develop effective working relationships and professional partnerships.
In addition, we also expect you to share and to delivering accessible and inclusive services which meet the needs of all of our residents. You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these commitments as part of the selection process. Reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with a disability. We are a .

About Leicestershire County Council At Leicestershire County Council, we're committed to making a real difference in people's lives. Our aim is to work with communities and partners to deliver public services that make Leicestershire the best possible place to live and work for everyone. Our employees play a key role in supporting this goal and helping us deliver the vital services we provide to the people of Leicestershire. Whether you're starting your career or looking for your next challenge, you'll find a place with us where your ideas are valued, and your work has purpose. For further information on what it's like to work for us and the benefits we offer, please refer to the following