Relief Early Year Assistants

Calling all compassionate and dedicated individuals! Mencap is seeking passionate Relief Early Year Assistants to join our incredible Early Years team in Belfast.  

Do you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of young children with a learning disability? 

This role is relief basic. An Enhanced AccessNI check and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) checks are mandatory for this position. 

Our specialist Early Years provision delivers a programme of play, care and education for children aged 2–5 years with significant developmental delay and/or complex medical needs. Working as part of a skilled multidisciplinary team, you'll help create a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child has the opportunity to learn, develop and reach their full potential. 

What will you do as an Early Years Assistant? 

 As part of our Early Years team, you will: 

• Support the delivery of stimulating, caring and therapeutic play within an educational environment.

• Work alongside our multidisciplinary team, external professionals and Family Support team to provide high-quality care, learning through play and therapeutic opportunities.

• Create a safe, engaging and inclusive environment that promotes each child's development, wellbeing and independence.

• Build positive relationships with children and their families, supporting every child to achieve the best possible outcomes.

• Assist with planning activities, observing children's progress and maintaining children's records in line with agreed care and learning plans.

• Follow individual therapy programmes under the guidance of Allied Health Professionals.

• Support children with personal care and, following appropriate training, assist with complex medical needs where required. 

• Promote safeguarding, equality, health and safety and Mencap's values in everything you do.

 What are we looking for? 

We're looking for someone who is caring, enthusiastic and committed to supporting children with additional needs. 

Ideally, you will have: 

• A QCF Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in Childcare, Learning and Development, Playwork or a related discipline.

• Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate learning and play activities.

• At least one year's experience (paid or lived) supporting children aged 0–5 years and their families.

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the confidence to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team. 

• A child-centred approach with a genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs to achieve their full potential.