Job Description
Principal Adviser for Early Years Quality
Location: North London Salary: 58.19 per hour Umbrella Contract: 3 months
Are you a visionary leader in early years education, passionate about raising standards and driving long-lasting impact for young children? Do you thrive on challenge, strategy, and the opportunity to shape practice across a borough?
We are seeking a committed and inspiring Principal Adviser for Early Years Quality to lead on the improvement of early education standards, shape strategic priorities, and ensure high-quality delivery across all types of settings-from nurseries and schools to childminders and children's centres.
What You'll Be Leading:
Development and delivery of the Early Years Quality Improvement Strategy, ensuring alignment with Ofsted and EYFS standards.
The local authority's statutory role in monitoring, challenging, and supporting early years providers to drive up performance.
Oversight of Ofsted readiness, safeguarding standards, and quality assurance in diverse early years settings.
Strategic partnership building across council departments, schools, and external organisations to foster collaboration and excellence.
Support and development of a high-performing team of Early Years Advisors, delivering expert support and challenge across the borough.
Leading borough-wide initiatives to raise attainment and promote inclusion from birth to five.
What You'll Be Responsible For:
Managing and supporting early years professionals and settings to improve Ofsted outcomes and embed high-quality practice.
Coordinating training, performance reviews, and professional development aligned with the LAs wider education strategy.
Collaborating with stakeholders from education, health, and social care to promote inclusive and equitable provision.
Representing the council at regional and national events, ensuring our borough's voice helps shape the future of early years education.
Driving innovation through the use of data, strategic planning, and performance monitoring tools.
Championing diversity, equity and continuous improvement across all settings.
What We're Looking For:
A deep understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Ofsted frameworks, and inclusive educational practices.
Proven senior leadership experience within early years education, school improvement, or local authority advisory services.
Strategic thinkers who can translate policy into practice and inspire positive change.
Exceptional communication, coaching, and stakeholder management skills.
A collaborative, values-driven professional committed to ensuring the best start for every child.
