Early Years Support Worker

We are recruiting on behalf of our client in Barnsley for a Early Years Support Worker. This is a full time role until the end of February 2026 in the first instance. The role is to deliver high-quality early years SEND support that raises standards, promotes inclusion, and strengthens inclusive practice across settings in your area.

Key Responsibilities

• Early Years Experience: Strong understanding of the Foundation Stage and child development, particularly with children aged 0–5 (predominantly 0–3).
• Home Visiting Role: Working independently in family homes as part of the Portage service, supporting children with developmental delays, health issues, and special needs.
• Family-Centred Approach: Non-directive, family-led support. Practitioners must be confident engaging with families, identifying concerns, and collaboratively planning developmental goals.
• Child Development Assessment: Skilled in assessing developmental stages and planning small, achievable next steps. Confident in play-based interaction and modelling engagement strategies for parents.
• Hands-On Engagement: Comfortable working directly with children, including those with physical, communication, or health needs. Ability to create a safe, secure environment for families.
• Transition Support: Supporting children through transitions in their development or care.
• Attend regional/national training to maintain up-to-date, innovative practice.
• Provide advice, guidance, and support to early years settings, schools, and families to improve outcomes.
• Produce clear, accurate reports and guidance, including sensitive/complex cases.
• Research and share best practice to support service improvement.
• Work collaboratively with parents/carers, settings, schools, academies, and partner agencies, using strong communication and influencing skills.
• Support progress monitoring and target setting for children with SEND.
• Advise on specialist equipment/resources and support relevant projects/initiatives.
• Contribute to service information systems and promote traded services where appropriate.

Essential Criteria

• Relevant Early Years qualification
• Must drive and have access to own vehicle
• Experience working with both adults and children
• Enhanced DBS for Children on the Update Service required
• Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) in a relevant specialist area
• Experience promoting inclusive SEND practice
• Experience working effectively with parents/carers and professionals.