Early Years Assistant

Do you have a passion for making a difference to the lives of young people with a learning disability? We are looking for 2 dedicated Early Years Assistants for 35 hours per week until July 2025.

Mencap Early years provision provides a programme of play, care and education for 2-5 year olds with significant developmental delay. The post holder will assist with the provision of a stimulating, caring and therapeutic play within an educational environment . Working alongside the multi-disciplinary team, other professionals and Family Support team, the Early Years Assistant will offer care and learning through play and incorporate therapy opportunities to ensure each child can reach their full potential.

The job requires a passionate and caring individual who will work as part of the Early years team to provide a stimulating environment to the children we support.

We are looking for someone who ideally has: Childcare qualification at QCF Level 2 or equivalent in Child Care, Learning and Development or Playwork, or a relevant occupational qualification and Knowledge of Child development and age appropriate activities.

We would prefer candidates with a minimum of 1 year working/lived experience with children aged 0-4 and their families.

This role is based on term time working, an enhanced Access NI and BHSCT checks are mandatory for this position. 

As well as knowing that what we do is making a positive difference to people’s lives, you will receive fair pay and have access to a wide range of rewards and benefits as one of our employees.

• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) increasing to 35 days with long service plus the ability to buy up to another 10 days via our HolidayPlus scheme
• Service related sick pay when 6 month probation is completed
• Pension contributions into NEST Scheme on a salary sacrifice basis meaning NI savings
• Death in service life cover for a nominated beneficiary under our life assurance scheme
• Loans for debt consolidation, bikes, computers and phones when you have been with us for 6 months
• Interest free season ticket loans
• Discounts and cashback from 3% to 30% at high street shops including major super markets, cinemas, gyms, leisure/theme parks, holidays and much more via Mencap Extras
• Opportunity to purchase a health cash plan to claim towards dental, glasses, therapy etc.
• Free access to round the clock employee assistance program for advice and support
• Quarterly award scheme and recognition at every 5 years through our YouRock program
• Access to award winning training and development

*T&C's apply based on contract

At Mencap we work in partnership with people with a learning disability. We do this by providing high quality, flexible services that support people, including young adults, to live as independently as possible in their own homes and in the community.

Everyone wants a purposeful job - to do something meaningful. At Mencap, we can give you that. You will have opportunities to develop as a person, colleague, leader and activist.

You’ll make new friends and feel inspired to reach your potential. We will ask a lot of you - but you’ll get back so much more. With us, it is never ‘just a job’.

In return for your hard work and passion, we can give you real meaning and purpose in your work.