EARLY YEARS HEAD OF SERVICE
| Posting date: | 23 September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £42,000 to £46,000 per year |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 22 October 2025 |
| Location: | Lochgilphead, PA31 8NE |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | HIJOBS |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 369567 |
Summary
Purpose of the Role
The Head of Service will provide strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, learning, and development for all children. The post holder will be responsible for leading and supporting the nursery team, fostering strong relationships with families and external agencies, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Management
Lead, support, and motivate a team of practitioners to deliver high-quality early learning and childcare.
Develop and implement policies, procedures, and improvement plans in line with Care Inspectorate standards, SSSC requirements, and national guidance.
Oversee staff development, supervision, appraisal, and training.
Quality & Compliance
Ensure the nursery provides a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment in line with Curriculum for Excellence and Realising the Ambition.
Maintain compliance with Care Inspectorate regulations and SSSC codes of practice.
Monitor and evaluate practice to ensure continuous improvement.
Communication & Partnership
Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and families to support each child’s learning journey.
Act as the main point of contact with local authority representatives, health professionals, and other external agencies.
Communicate effectively with staff, parents, and stakeholders, ensuring transparency and collaboration.
Operational & Strategic Duties
Manage budgets, staffing rotas, and resource allocation effectively.
Support recruitment and induction of new staff members.
Lead improvement planning to ensure the nursery continues to grow and excel.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications & Registration
BA Childhood Practice (or equivalent degree in Early Years/Childhood Practice).
Registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) (or willingness to register upon appointment).
Essential Skills & Experience
Proven management experience within an early years setting.
Strong leadership and team-building skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Knowledge of national early years frameworks and regulatory requirements.
Ability to manage resources, budgets, and staff effectively.
Desirable Skills & Experience
Experience working within Argyll & Bute or similar rural communities.
Experience leading change and implementing quality improvement strategies.