Principal Advisor for Early Years

Principal Advisor – Early Years
3 – 6 month initial contract
North London
£400-500 per day
Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Hybrid working

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for early childhood education? Do you have the drive to elevate standards and make a lasting difference in the lives of young children?
We’re looking for an inspiring and experienced professional to take on the role of Principal Adviser for Early Years. In this pivotal position, you’ll lead the charge in enhancing early years education across the borough, ensuring excellence in nurseries, schools, childminders, and children’s centres.

Key Responsibilities as Principal Advisor – Early Years:-

• Lead the development and implementation of the borough’s Early Years Quality Improvement Strategy, ensuring alignment with EYFS and Ofsted standards.
• Oversee the local authority’s statutory duties in supporting and challenging early years providers to raise performance.
• Ensure settings are Ofsted-ready, uphold safeguarding standards, and maintain robust quality assurance.
• Build strong partnerships across council services, schools, and external agencies to promote collaboration and best practice.
• Manage and mentor a team of Early Years Advisors, driving high-quality support and challenge across the borough.
• Spearhead initiatives to boost early years attainment and foster inclusive practices from birth to age five.

Your Previous Experience as Principal Advisor – Early Years:-

• In-depth knowledge of the EYFS framework, Ofsted inspection criteria, and inclusive education.

• Proven leadership experience in early years, school improvement, or local authority advisory roles.
• Strategic thinking with the ability to turn policy into impactful practice.
• Strong communication, coaching, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A commitment to equity, innovation, and continuous improvement in early years provision.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of early years education in North London. If you’re ready to lead with vision and purpose, we’d love to hear from you!

If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail or know someone who this may be of interest to, please contact Sarah Williams on 0117 3137110 or apply today.

(We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation so please do get in contact)

Our clients are passionate about creating and evolving a diverse workforce and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant.  Recruiting decisions are based on your experience and skills.  Any reasonable adjustments in the workplace will be fully supported during the application and hiring process.

Share on linkedIn