Early Years Support Worker

Early Years Support Worker
Location: Barnsley
Client: Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Contract Type: Temporary (3 months)
Hours: Full time (37 hours per week) – typically 8am–5pm, flexible to meet family needs
Salary: £18.35 per hour (PAYE)
About the Role
This role involves delivering high-quality, family-centred early years support as part of the Portage service. You will work independently in family homes, supporting children aged 0–5 (predominantly 0–3) with developmental delays, health issues, and special educational needs. The focus is on empowering families through non-directive, collaborative approaches, helping them set and achieve developmental goals for their children.
Key Responsibilities

• Provide home-based support to families, modelling play-based strategies and engagement techniques
• Assess children’s developmental stages and plan small, achievable next steps
• Support transitions in children’s development or care arrangements
• Promote inclusive practice and remove barriers to learning
• Produce clear, concise reports and maintain accurate records
• Liaise with parents, carers, and professionals to ensure coordinated support
• Advise on specialist equipment and resources where needed
• Attend training and contribute to service development initiatives

Experience & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage and child development
• Experience working with children aged 0–5, particularly 0–3
• Knowledge of SEND strategies and inclusive practice
• Familiarity with developmental assessment tools and planning interventions
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality requirements

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently in family homes and build trust with parents
• Skilled in play-based interaction and modelling strategies for families
• Strong organisational skills to manage caseloads and prioritise tasks
• Competent in record-keeping and report writing
• ICT proficiency for data interpretation and service planning

Additional Requirements

• Relevant Early Years qualification (minimum Level 3)
• Must hold a full driving licence and have access to own vehicle
• Enhanced DBS check required
• Commitment to continuous professional development
• Ability to work flexibly to meet family needs

If you are interested in the role and would like to contact me for further information on the role you can contact myself on the details below.

At Service Care Solutions we also offer a £250 bonus for referrals! If you think you know someone who would be ideal for this role and they are placed in the job you will then receive £250 at the end of their probationary period.

To apply for this role, or to refer someone else, then please do not hesitate to contact Jack at Service Care Solutions on 01772208964 or email on Jack.Lonsdale@Servicecare.org.uk