Principal Advisor for Early Years

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.