Early years programme lead jobs

We are launching something rare. Lighthouse is the clearest expression yet of what Under One Sky has been building towards for over a decade - a space rooted in care, consistency, and the belief that people can rebuild their lives when they are met with dignity and trust. At our core is something simple but powerful: a commitment to human connection.

We take our work seriously, because the stakes are high, but we try not to take ourselves too seriously. There is discipline in how we deliver, but also warmth, openness, and moments of joy that matter just as much.

Lighthouse represents a step change for us. It is the point where our ambition is fully realised - moving beyond outreach into a structured, sustained environment where people can stabilise, reconnect, and move forward. We want Lighthouse to be exceptional - not only for the people we serve, but something that sets a standard others look to and learn from. 

We are looking for two people who want to help shape and run this with us. This is not a role to simply manage a programme; it is an opportunity to co-create it. We are looking for people who combine initiative with reliability - individuals who are grounded, thoughtful, and willing to take ownership. People who care deeply about purpose, who value relationships, and who bring energy and discipline to their work. These roles are for people who want to build something meaningful and do it brilliantly.

About Under One Sky & The Lighthouse

Under One Sky works alongside people experiencing homelessness to provide practical support, human connection, and pathways toward greater stability. 

Lighthouse creates the conditions for people who have experienced homelessness to move beyond survival and begin rebuilding their lives. Over twelve weeks, small cohorts come together in a consistent, supportive space where confidence grows, relationships are rebuilt, and people reconnect with their sense of direction and possibility.

Through outreach, partnership working, and volunteer-led programmes, we aim to create spaces where people are treated with dignity, trust, and consistency.

The role

The Programme Manager leads the operational delivery of Lighthouse, ensuring the programme runs safely, reliably, and to a consistently high standard across the programme week. This role sits at the centre of the work - creating the conditions that allow Lighthouse to function with both structure and humanity.

Lighthouse operates in a dynamic environment where participant needs, operational demands, and volunteer teams intersect daily. You will bring clarity and calm to that complexity, maintaining strong systems and organisation while responding thoughtfully and decisively to what emerges in real time.

You will take ownership of the systems, planning, and operational coordination that underpin delivery. This includes overseeing key sessions, ensuring volunteers are well supported, and maintaining a physical space that is safe, welcoming, and well run. Your role is to make sure Lighthouse works - consistently, reliably, and with care.

You will also play a central role in shaping how Lighthouse develops over time. By observing how delivery works in practice, you will identify what can be strengthened and translate this into practical improvements. This requires sound judgement, attention to detail, and a commitment to doing things well.

You will work closely with the Engagement Manager to ensure Lighthouse remains both operationally strong and deeply responsive to the people it serves.

Key responsibilities

Operational leadership

• Lead the day-to-day operational delivery of the Lighthouse 
• Plan and coordinate the weekly programme schedule, ensuring delivery is reliable and consistent
• Ensure sessions are well staffed and supported by volunteers and team members
• Provide operational leadership during high-demand sessions
• Respond calmly and effectively to challenges if they arise

Programme systems and coordination

• Develop and maintain systems that support consistent high-quality delivery
• Coordinate logistics including spaces, equipment, supplies, and delivery resources
• Support budgeting, resource planning, and cost oversight
• Maintain clear and consistently applied operational processes 

Space and facilities management

• Ensure the Lighthouse space is safe, organised, and ready for delivery
• Oversee opening and closing procedures 
• Coordinate setup and breakdown of delivery areas, equipment, and supplies
• Maintain a welcoming, well-structured environment for participants, volunteers, and staff
• Liaise with venue partners or building managers where required

Volunteer coordination

• Coordinate volunteer scheduling and session rotas across the programme week
• Ensure sessions are appropriately supported by volunteers
• Maintain clear and timely communication with volunteers 

Programme monitoring

• Ensure delivery data is recorded accurately and consistently
• Maintain operational records to support reporting and learning
• Support monitoring of delivery against agreed objectives and metrics

Programme development and operational improvement

• Monitor how Lighthouse operates in practice and identify opportunities to strengthen delivery
• Translate learning from day-to-day delivery into practical adjustments to programme design, scheduling, and systems
• Work with the Engagement Manager and the Co-Leads to implement improvements
• Ensure changes are communicated clearly and embedded across volunteers and teams

Operational partnerships

• Coordinate practical relationships with venues, delivery partners, and collaborators
• Manage operational arrangements for Lighthouse sessions
• Ensure partnerships support reliable and well-organised programme delivery

Requirements

About you

This role requires someone who is organised, decisive, and comfortable taking responsibility in a complex delivery environment.

You will be able to maintain structure and clarity even when situations change quickly. You will bring a calm and practical approach to problem-solving and be confident supporting volunteers and teams during live programme delivery.

You will likely bring:

• significant experience coordinating programmes, projects, or complex operations

• the ability to manage multiple moving parts while maintaining attention to detail

• confidence making practical decisions in real time

• experience supporting teams or volunteers in delivery environments

• strong organisational discipline and systems thinking

• a commitment to dignity and respect when working alongside people experiencing homelessness

Working pattern

Lighthouse operates primarily between 8:00am and 8:00pm, with occasional evening events. Programme delivery is supported by a team of volunteers.

The two Managers coordinate their working schedules to ensure presence during key delivery periods across the programme week.

Working patterns are flexible and planned collaboratively to support delivery while maintaining sustainable workloads.

Lighthouse Management Structure

Lighthouse is delivered through a shared model, with two Managers working together to ensure the programme remains a safe, consistent, and dignified space for people experiencing homelessness.

Delivering this well requires both strong programme organisation and careful, trauma-informed engagement with participants.

The two Managers hold complementary responsibilities that ensure Lighthouse is both well-run and deeply responsive to the people it serves. While each role leads on specific areas of the programme, they work closely together to maintain consistent standards, clear communication, and a reliable experience for participants.

Joint responsibilities

Together the Managers ensure that Lighthouse operates with consistency, safety and care:

• Participants experience Lighthouse as a safe and welcoming space where they are treated with dignity and respect.

• Delivery remains trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in Under One Sky’s values of presence, trust, and follow-through.

• Lighthouse sessions are appropriately staffed, with volunteers and team members supported to deliver confidently and reliably.

• Safeguarding is embedded into day-to-day delivery, with clear processes for responding to disclosures, incidents, risk, and vulnerability.

• Participant needs, concerns, and wellbeing are recognised early and responded to appropriately.

• Volunteers and staff are supported to hold clear boundaries while maintaining compassion and respect.

• Communication and follow-through are strong so participants do not experience gaps, confusion, or inconsistent responses.

• Lighthouse maintains a high standard of care, professionalism, and stability across the programme week.

Culture and approach

The Managers help shape the tone of Lighthouse through calm, grounded leadership and consistent presence within the programme.

They help ensure Lighthouse remains a place where participants feel:

• seen and respected

• safe and protected

• met with consistency rather than unpredictability

• supported without judgement

• able to access help with dignity

They create the conditions for volunteers and staff to provide meaningful support while ensuring Lighthouse remains structured, accountable, and deeply human.

The role

The Engagement Manager leads the relational and safeguarding delivery of Lighthouse, ensuring the programme is experienced as a place of dignity, trust, and consistency for every participant. This role sits at the centre of the work - shaping how Lighthouse feels, how people are received, and how support is experienced in practice.

Lighthouse operates in a dynamic environment where participant needs, operational demands, and volunteer teams intersect daily. You will bring presence, judgement, and emotional intelligence to that space, maintaining strong relational consistency while responding thoughtfully and appropriately to what emerges in real time.

You will take ownership of participant engagement across the programme. This includes building trusted relationships, maintaining strong safeguarding practice, and supporting volunteers to engage in ways that are respectful, boundaried, and trauma-informed. Your role is to ensure Lighthouse is not only well run, but deeply human - a place where people feel seen, respected, and supported.

You will also play a central role in shaping how Lighthouse supports people beyond immediate engagement. By understanding participant journeys and needs, you will help strengthen pathways into stability, connection, and opportunity. This requires sound judgement, relational skill, and the ability to translate insight into practical support.

You will work closely with the Programme Manager to ensure Lighthouse remains both operationally strong and deeply responsive to the people it serves.

Key responsibilities

Participant engagement and presence

• Lead participant engagement across Lighthouse delivery
• Build consistent, trusted relationships with participants
• Maintain a visible, calm, and grounded presence during programme sessions
• Help ensure participants feel recognised, welcomed, and respected

Participant wellbeing and support

• Recognise emerging participant needs and respond appropriately
• Support participants to access information, services, and appropriate support
• Help maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive programme environment
• Ensure participant experience remains consistent and well held

Safeguarding leadership

• Lead safeguarding practice across the programme
• Coordinate safeguarding processes, documentation, and follow-up
• Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns and incidents
• Ensure safeguarding procedures and escalation pathways are consistently followed
• Exercise sound judgement in complex or sensitive situations

Volunteer support and guidance

• Support volunteers to engage confidently and appropriately with participants
• Provide guidance on boundaries, relational approaches, and safeguarding awareness
• Help create a volunteer culture that is consistent, compassionate, and well supported
• Ensure volunteers feel clear, confident, and supported in their roles

Partnerships, referrals, and pathways

• Build and maintain relationships with outreach teams, support services, and sector partners
• Coordinate referrals and connections to external services where appropriate
• Develop pathways into employment, training, and longer-term stability
• Liaise with employers and partner organisations connected to participant opportunities
• Strengthen the network of support available to participants beyond Lighthouse

Requirements

About you

This role requires someone who is grounded, perceptive, and confident taking responsibility within a complex, people-centred environment.

You will be able to build trust quickly while maintaining clear boundaries and professional consistency. You will bring a calm, thoughtful presence and be comfortable navigating emotionally complex situations with care and sound judgement.

You will likely bring:

• significant experience working alongside vulnerable or marginalised communities
• strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• knowledge of safeguarding practice and working with vulnerable adults
• confidence navigating complex or emotionally demanding situations
• the ability to remain calm, consistent, and thoughtful under pressure
• a deep commitment to dignity, respect, and trauma-informed practice

Working pattern

Lighthouse operates primarily between 8:00am and 8:00pm, with occasional evening events. Programme delivery is supported by a team of volunteers.

The two Managers coordinate their working schedules to ensure presence during key delivery periods across the programme week.

Working patterns are flexible and planned collaboratively to support delivery while maintaining sustainable workloads.

Lighthouse Management Structure

Lighthouse is delivered through a shared model, with two Managers working together to ensure the programme remains a safe, consistent, and dignified space for people experiencing homelessness.

Delivering this well requires both strong programme organisation and careful, trauma-informed engagement with participants.

The two Managers hold complementary responsibilities that ensure Lighthouse is both well-run and deeply responsive to the people it serves. While each role leads on specific areas of the programme, they work closely together to maintain consistent standards, clear communication, and a reliable experience for participants.

Joint responsibilities

Together the Managers ensure that Lighthouse operates with consistency, safety and care:

• Participants experience Lighthouse as a safe and welcoming space where they are treated with dignity and respect
• Delivery remains trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in Under One Sky’s values of presence, trust, and follow-through
• Lighthouse sessions are appropriately staffed, with volunteers and team members supported to deliver confidently and reliably
• Safeguarding is embedded into day-to-day delivery, with clear processes for responding to disclosures, incidents, risk, and vulnerability
• Participant needs, concerns, and wellbeing are recognised early and responded to appropriately
• Volunteers and staff are supported to hold clear boundaries while maintaining compassion and respect
• Communication and follow-through are strong so participants do not experience gaps, confusion, or inconsistent responses
• Lighthouse maintains a high standard of care, professionalism, and stability across the programme week

Culture and approach

The Managers help shape the tone of Lighthouse through calm, grounded leadership and consistent presence within the programme.

They help ensure the Lighthouse remains a place where participants feel:

• seen and respected
• safe and protected
• met with consistency rather than unpredictability
• supported without judgement
• able to access help with dignity

They create the conditions for volunteers and staff to provide meaningful support while ensuring Lighthouse remains structured, accountable, and deeply human.

The Grants and Programmes Manager will manage the delivery of a portfolio of work within the Grants and Programmes function at Battersea. This is an exciting time for Battersea as we expand our work to impact more dogs and cats.
Over the coming five years it is planned that the size and complexity of our activities will grow, including the establishment of several multi-year programmes in the UK and abroad.

This is a senior role within the Grants and Programmes team in the Global Programmes Directorate, requiring excellent experience of people management, strategic leadership and good grant making practice.

The successful postholder should be comfortable making proposals, suggesting alternative approaches and solutions, supporting the contributions of others, and advancing the collective interests of a team. They should also be comfortable working with considerable scope, and complexity and nurturing relationships with colleagues and external partners as an integral element of the role. The successful postholder should be able to develop and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders, to pose and field questions of considerable complexity and sensitivity and use discretion in carrying out a constructive and effective dialogue; they will be comfortable with proposing ideas, engaging in productive debate, supporting the contributions of others, and in other ways advancing Battersea’s strategic interests.

What we can offer you:
In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year
• Discounted gym membership and cycle to work schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:
We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:
We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best. If you would like to talk more about this, please contact us. Greyscale copies of the recruitment pack are also available on request.

More about us:
At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:
At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing Date: 3rd May 2026
All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.

Interview Details:

• First Stage: Online (via MS Teams) with a task to complete. The task will be shared when invited to interview - w/c 18th May 2026
• Second Stage: In Person - Date to be confirmed

For full details on the role, please download the recruitment pack.

Circa £53,000 per annum

Permanent

Part home/Part office (London) based

UNICEF ensures more of the world’s children are vaccinated, educated and protected than any other organisation. We have done more to influence laws and policies to help protect children than anyone else. We get things done. And we’re not going to stop until the world is a safe place for all our children.

This is a great opportunity to join the UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) as a Senior Policy Adviser – Education.

The role provides strategic leadership on UK education policy across the organisation, with a current focus on early childhood learning and development. The role shapes and delivers rights-based policy influencing strategies, research, and analysis, working closely with colleagues in campaigns and political affairs to drive change for children in the UK.

The role requires expertise in UK education policy, clear experience leading advocacy-oriented research, and a history of influencing UK Government. You will bring a strong understanding of UK policy-making processes and a commitment to children’s rights.

Act now and visit the website via the apply button to apply online.

Closing date: 9am, Thursday 14 May 2026.

Interview date: Wednesday 27 May 2026.  

In return, we offer:

· excellent pay and benefits (including flexible working, generous annual leave and pension, big brand discounts and wellbeing tools)

· outstanding training and learning opportunities and the support to flourish in your role

· impressive open plan office space and facilities on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

· an open culture and workplace with colleagues who share our values, enjoy their work and are motivated to do their utmost for children.

· the opportunity to work in a leading children’s organisation making a difference to children around the world

Our application process: We use a system called "Applied" that anonymises your responses and focuses on your actual skills that are relevant to this role. This benefits you by giving you a greater chance of expressing your skills in this objective selection process.

We anticipate most colleagues will work two days a week in the office on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London and the rest of the time from home.  We will happily discuss other flexible options to suit your circumstances.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, and disabled candidates, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at this level at UNICEF UK. We want to do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for children.

UNICEF UK promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We make employment decisions by matching business needs with skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

We welcome a conversation about your flexible working requirements, personal growth, and promoting a workplace where you can be yourself and achieve success based only on your merit.

The successful candidate will be required to apply for a criminal records check. A criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us. This will depend on the nature of the role and the circumstances of your offences.

We only accept online applications as this saves us money, making more funds available for us to help ensure children’s rights.

If you require support in completing the online form or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the Supporter Care line during office hours.

If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. Please note that we only provide feedback to shortlisted candidates.

Registered Charity Nos. 1072612 (England and Wales) SC043677 (Scotland)

An exciting opportunity to help turn a new national initiative into reality as it moves from planning into delivery. Over the next year, we will launch a new national Foundation Degree while building the foundations of a wider programme of work. In the initial phase, this role will focus on working locally with partners and participants in one or more locations to support recruitment, onboarding and preparation for launch, while also contributing to the wider programme build-out alongside a national team. As delivery begins, the role will transition into ongoing programme management across a cluster of delivery centres, leading high-quality delivery, participant experience and programme quality, and helping to build strong, sustainable centres over time.

Programme Support & Knowledge Director

Contract: Permanent, Full Time

Location: The role can be based in the London, United Kingdom, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya and Rwanda, subject to right to work eligibility in the respective countries.

UK hybrid working – a minimum of 40 % of working time is spent face-to-face (London office, external meetings or travel). 60/40 hybrid working at WaterAid means roughly three days wherever you work best and two days together in person.

Salary: Salaries and benefits will vary in line with the location of the successful candidate and depending on experience.

UK: £81,510 per year with excellent benefits.

Other Countries: Competitive with excellent benefits.

*We offer competitive, market-aligned starting salaries. While most roles are offered at the advertised starting salary, we may adjust this in exceptional cases depending on a candidate’s experience, skills, and potential.

Change starts with water. Change starts with you.

Every day, millions of people live without clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid exists to change that – for everyone, everywhere. Join us, and your energy will help unlock people’s potential and create a fairer future.

About WaterAid

We’re a global federation driven by one vision: a world where everyone, everywhere has clean water, sanitation and hygiene by 2030. Powered by our values of Respect, Accountability, Courage, Collaboration, Integrity and Innovation, we work alongside communities, partners and supporters to make change happen.

About the team

The Programme Support & Knowledge (PSK) team is a critical and dynamic unit within WaterAid UK’s International Programmes Department (IPD), working across 17 countries in Africa and Asia. PSK is a diverse and motivated group of over 20 technical specialists and advisors committed to bringing sustainable WASH to the world’s poorest and most marginalised people.

About the role

As our Programme Support and Knowledge Director, you will play a key role in delivering our mission by providing strategic leadership to the PSK team and the wider IPD, as part of the department’s SMT. You will also input into organisation-wide initiatives, external collaborations and global networks to drive sustainable change.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic and technical leadership to WaterAid UK’s programmes
• Lead the Programme Support & Knowledge Team
• Lead programme learning and knowledge management
• Oversee programme support and capacity development
• Support fundraising, external engagement, partnerships and communications
• Champion WaterAid’s commitment to equity, inclusion and safeguarding.

Requirements

To be successful, you will need:

• Extensive and deep experience in WASH development across multiple contexts
• Strong technical WASH skills – e.g. sustainable rural and /or urban water supply service delivery and management, climate resilient WASH, 
• Systems-thinking capability to support transformational WASH programming
• Proven ability to lead strategic, impactful initiatives in large organisations
• Strong understanding of planning, monitoring and evaluation in development
• Experience in knowledge management, learning and capacity development
• Proven experience of developing propositions and donor engagement and
• A track record of leading high-performing teams and supporting change

Although not essential, we’d prefer you to have:

• Working knowledge of French, Portuguese or Spanish
• Experience leading or managing applied research
• Experience establishing and promoting technical standards.

Closing date: Applications close 12:00 PM UK time on 11 May 2026. Shortlisting and Interviews may be scheduled on a rolling basis, and the role may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found. Therefore, we encourage you to apply at an early stage.

How to apply: Click Apply to complete the pre-screening questions and upload your CV and cover letter.

Can I use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in my application?

At WaterAid, we strongly advise against using AI technology at any stage of the recruitment process. Our goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process that provides every applicant with an equal opportunity to succeed. We value hearing about your unique experiences and perspectives in your application, and, if shortlisted, during the interview as well.

Pre‑employment screening

To apply for this role, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the respective country. All pre-employment checks will be carried out according to local law and WaterAid’s Safer Recruitment policy. All UK based roles require a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Benefits

As a global organisation, WaterAid is committed to creating an environment where you can thrive and be yourself at your very best. Alongside our inspiring mission and meaningful work, we offer a range of benefits tailored to each country’s context and policies. These will be shared during the process

Our Global Commitment:

Our people promise

We will work with passion and focus to make sure everyone everywhere has clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. WaterAid is a place of purpose – where people have a real commitment and shared responsibility for the impact we have. We are a global community with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, motivated by inspiring, stimulating work. We are determined to be a place where people feel safe and able to contribute their voice and truly live our values.

Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, ways of life and status. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, caste, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, disability status, neurodiversity, age, marital and family status, sexual orientation and gender identity, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation.

Safeguarding

We are committed to protecting everyone we come into contact with. We have a zero- tolerance approach to abuse of power, privilege or trust across our global work, and to any form of inappropriate behaviour, discrimination, abuse, bullying, harassment, or exploitation. Safeguarding the people and communities we work with, our staff, volunteers and anyone working on our behalf is our top priority, and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks (which can include counterterrorism, safeguarding and criminal records checks).

Together, we’ll change the world through water.

Join us and be part of the change !

Early Years Advisor

We are looking for an Early Years Advisor to join the team in this remote working role.

Position: Early Years Advisor

Location: Huddersfield Hybrid or Remote

Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week

Salary: £30 – 32k

Contract: Temporary until 31 March 2029 (subject to contract)

Start Date: No later than June 2026

Benefits: Include 26 days’ holiday, rising to 30 after service increments plus 8 bank holiday, Personal Pension Scheme, Healthcare Cash Plan, Employee Assistance Programme, Staff Awards Scheme, Company Sick Pay Scheme, flexible working patterns

Closing Date: 24th April 2026

The Role

You will support the contract delivery of the Champions programmes, primarily Maths Champions, ensuring contract milestones are met. The Champions programmes are online professional development programmes designed to support early years settings to drive continuous improvement and increase high standards in early education for children from birth to five years, in line with the organisations mission to promote quality in early years for UK and international customers.

Working closely with other Early Years Advisors, delivery partners, managers and cross teams, you will be responsible for the delivery of Champions programmes.

You will work with the private, voluntary, maintained and independent sectors, and school provision providing advice and support relating to Champions programmes that enable practitioners within nursery settings with practice improvement resulting in better outcomes for children.

Key duties include:

• Provide support to cohorts of early years practitioners
• Deliver live virtual training to Champions
• Mentor and coach Champions
• Aid in the development, review and maintenance of Champions programme materials and resources
• Provide one to one advice and support to early years providers
• Work with the project manager to support the execution, delivery, management and achievement of all milestones within specific time constraints
• Collate data and report on progress of programme completion
• Develop and maintain effective partnerships and relationships
• Support the development and delivery of practice content

About You

You will have previous experience of working in early years, leading practice specifically in mathematical, language, literacy and communication as an early years professional or teacher.

We are looking for someone with experience of:

• Coaching and mentoring early years practitioners to support practice improvement
• Strong customer service or related experience
• Multi-agency partnership working
• Developing and securing strong partnerships
• Involvement with early year’s networks or groups
• Product development and review
• Effective time management
• Delivery against targets and deadlines

To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter detailing how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the requirements of the role.

About the Organisation

The organisation is a national charity and membership association specifically for nurseries. They work in partnership with nurseries, local authorities, national government and a range of partners to develop an environment in which early learning and care can flourish.

The organisation is committed to a policy of equal opportunities and is actively opposed to discrimination in society.

You may also have experience in areas such as Early Years Advisor, Early Years, Teacher, Primary Teacher, Early Years Teacher, Advisor, Programme Advisor.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People. #INDNFP

Location: MSSC National Support Centre, London SE1 7JY (Hybrid)

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Salary: £49,000 gross per annum

Closing Date: 3 May 2026

Are you a Safeguarding Manager looking for a new opportunity?

The Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) is the leading maritime charity for youth development and lifelong learning. We are a vibrant and growing charity inspiring young people to achieve their potential through challenge and nautical adventure, while also enabling seafarers and maritime professionals to realise their potential through learning and career development.

Thousands of young people take part in Sea Cadets activity every week. We want to reach thousands more. We have a strong vision and are on the cusp of rolling out a new multi-year growth strategy to meet the growing demand for what we provide for young people. We aim to equip them to achieve their potential and thrive in a rapidly changing world. We are immensely proud of the breadth, quality and safety of activities we offer to young people.

We are currently looking for a Safeguarding Manager to join our team.

About the role

We are currently seeking to appoint a Safeguarding Manager who will be responsible for overseeing the day to day operational safeguarding functions for our charity. You will manage a team of Safeguarding Officers to ensure that an effective and robust safeguarding service is provided.  The post holder will provide professional advice and support on safeguarding matters to staff and volunteers, as well as liaising and meeting with external bodies, and occasionally delivering training.

You will have experience of the voluntary youth or community sector as a direct practitioner, and knowledge of Early Help and statutory guidance relating to safeguarding children and adults at risk. You will also have experience of managing a team where safeguarding is the main focus area of your work. 

Our safeguarding team operates centrally in London where we are responsible for providing support, advice and guidance to our volunteers relating on all safeguarding matters across the UK. Our Safeguarding Officers act as our lead professionals in managing safeguarding casework in line with our policy, procedures, national guidance and in line with our statutory duty.

Whilst this is a Monday- Friday full time position, a flexible approach to work and working patterns is a must, as is the ability to work effectively and respond appropriately in challenging circumstances.

Responsibilities

· Operational delivery

· Line management of the Safeguarding team

· Service development

Requirements

· A relevant professional qualification for example: Youth Work, Education, Early Years or demonstrable equivalent work experience.

· Detailed understanding of Early Help and legislation affecting safeguarding, regulatory requirements and best practice in relation to youth participation and inclusion.

· Knowledge and understanding of current issues and trends in safeguarding, child protection and work with children and young people.

· Management experience including responsibility for managing safeguarding, child protection, review or risk assessment and complaints and being the key decision maker.

· Experience of managing a team with an understanding of the impact and issues involved in safeguarding and child protection.

For further information, please download the Recruitment Pack. If you are interested in this role, please apply now!

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave per annum, pro rata for part time employees, increasing with length of service
• Hybrid working for many roles
• Volunteering Leave
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Private medical insurance
• Generous pension (employer contribution up to 10%)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Access to the Marine Society Digital Library
• Wellbeing portal and EAP with 121 counselling
• Employee development: We are investing in our employees' development and have an annual calendar of learning and development opportunities, designed to support employees to develop into their roles and stretch them to achieve their full potential.

Additional Information

MSSC positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. Equity, diversity, and inclusion really matters to us, so we can best serve our beneficiaries from every community. We work to ensure a fair and consistent recruitment process and aim to be a charity where diversity of experience, identity and skills are valued and welcomed. MSSC is an equal opportunities employer.

We recognise our responsibilities to safeguard and protect the young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We do all we can to promote their health, safety and wellbeing, and we expect our staff to share this commitment and work in line with safeguarding policy, the MSSC’s values and ethos of inclusivity. We adhere to safer recruitment practices and therefore employment is subject to detailed pre-employment checks for successful candidates, including references and criminal disclosure checks and the completion of a disclosure questionnaire.

All successful applicants are required to attend safeguarding training and undergo pre-employment checks including a criminal record check.

About the role

The Climate and Resilience Expert is a specialist role that will contribute to strengthening and expanding Practical Action’s Climate and Resilience portfolio, with a primary focus on Early Warning Systems and Early Action. The postholder will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of our EWS/EWEA work, providing high‑quality technical expertise, thought leadership and sector engagement to enhance the impact of our programmes, partnerships, and consultancy services.

This role will support the delivery of ongoing workplans for key EWS/EWEA initiatives, including maternity cover responsibilities for priority projects. Approximately 50% of the postholder’s time will focus on coordinating delivery of the EWS Thematic Lead work under the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance, ensuring continuity, effective collaboration, and high technical standards across research, programme design, partnership development, and influencing activities.

About you

The successful candidate will bring strong technical knowledge of early warning systems and early action, experience working in climate resilience in low‑ and middle‑income contexts, and the ability to collaborate effectively with global teams, partners, and external stakeholders to advance Practical Action’s mission of putting ingenious ideas to work for a world that works better for everyone.

Person Specification

• Minimum of 5 years professional experience in a related role, including significant time working in different geographical contexts globally. 
• Masters degree level qualification or equivalent in a related field.
• Strong personal empathy with Practical Action’s mission, vision and values.
• Ability and willingness to travel overseas several weeks a year.
• Established professional relationships with relevant key actors/networks in the Early Warning System sector.
• Experience of developing and leading consultancy assignments, projects and teams.

Skills, Abilities and Competencies:

• In-depth knowledge of Early Warning Systems, and relevant stakeholders and funders.
• Knowledge of Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) as a priority in EWS.
• High standards of written and spoken English. 
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build and maintain strong working relationships and networks.
• Enthusiastic and results driven.
• Ability to write and speak in a language other than English would be an advantage (e.g. Spanish, French, Portuguese).

 The opportunity to work for an organisation that is making a positive difference to the lives of people worldwide, a friendly and supportive culture, and working with values-driven and highly engaged colleagues are just some of the reasons we think Practical Action is a great place to work.

This role will be based in the UK.

The successful applicant must have the pre-existing right to both live and work in the UK.  The successful candidate will be expected to attend the Rugby office on regular occasions.

Interviews: It is anticipated that interviews will take place in the weeks commencing 11th and 18th May 2026.

If you do not hear from us within five weeks of the closing date, please assume your application has not been successful on this occasion.

Individual Giving Lead When You Wish Upon a Star | £30,000–£35,000 | Nottingham / Hybrid | Permanent 

Some roles are defined before you arrive. This one is defined by you. 

When You Wish Upon a Star grants life-changing wishes for children with terminal and life-threatening illnesses. Every wish is a memory that lasts a lifetime for a family facing the unimaginable. The cause is immediate, emotionally powerful and directly translatable into the kind of impact that makes supporters proud to be involved. 

We are looking for someone to develop and lead our individual giving function. You will shape the strategy, grow and steward our community of individual supporters, and define what this looks like for Wish. You will have the full backing of the CEO and board, direct access to senior leadership, and the freedom to bring your own thinking, creativity and ambition to a function that is yours to build.

If that sounds like the role you have been waiting for, we would love to hear from you.

What you will be doing 

You will identify, engage and grow a community of individual supporters who feel deeply connected to our mission, developing propositions and campaigns that are emotionally compelling and inspire long-term giving. You will represent Wish confidently, create the systems and supporter journeys that enable sustainable growth, and lay the foundations for an individual giving programme that grows in both income and impact. As income grows, so does the role. The expectation is that this person builds not just a strong base of individual supporters but, in time, a team around it. 

You will work closely with the Head of Income Generation and Board, with realistic targets in the early stages that give you the time and space to build meaningful relationships rather than focus on short-term gains. This is not a role where you will be left to figure it out alone. It is one where your ideas are valued, your judgement is trusted, and your ambition is actively supported. 

What you will bring 

Experience developing, growing or significantly influencing individual giving income streams, including regular giving and lottery programmes, and engaging supporters at scale to inspire long-term and higher-value giving. Experience of managing the end-to-end supporter journey through CRM systems, using insight and data to drive acquisition, retention and growth. 

A strong instinct for understanding what motivates people to give, and the ability to turn that insight into campaigns and experiences that feel personal, compelling and effective. Comfort with ownership, and the confidence to create momentum and build something from the ground up. 

What we offer 

We know what we are asking of you and we have built a package to reflect it. 

• £30,000–£35,000, reviewed as the function grows 

• 25 days holiday rising to 30 with service, plus 3 days at Christmas not taken from your allowance 

• 2 Wish Maker days each year to make your own wishes come true 

• 6 months full maternity pay 

• Full sick pay from day one 

• Flexible working with full trust over how you structure your hours 

• A culture built on genuine care for the people who work here 

How to apply 

We invite you to explore our recruitment pack for more information on the role and how to apply. 

Full-time, 37.5 hours per week (excluding breaks)

Fixed term for 12 months in the first instance (subject to the successful completion of a 6-month probationary period)

We are recruiting to a brand-new role and are looking for an experienced, community-focused Programme Manager (Place) to lead Salford CVS’s Pride in Place activity in Pendleton and Peel Green. This is a key role focused on ensuring that strong, representative community voice, clear governance, and meaningful VCSE sector involvement are embedded from the outset.

Pride in Place is a national ten-year programme that places Neighbourhood Boards at the heart of local decision-making, with local authorities acting as the accountable body and communities expected to shape priorities and hold partners to account. In this model, Local Infrastructure Organisations (LIOs) like Salford CVS play an important enabling role - helping to connect local authorities with VCSE organisations, strengthening engagement, and ensuring a diverse range of community voices can participate fully.

As Programme Manager (Place), you will coordinate our work to support high-quality governance, inclusive engagement and strong local insight across both neighbourhoods.

A core part of your work will be ensuring that Pride in Place Neighbourhood Boards in Pendleton and Peel Green benefit from authentic, representative and evidence-driven community input. This includes leading the development of a community research programme, working in close partnership with VCSE organisations already active on the ground. Through these organisations, who often have trusted relationships with residents, established local networks and specialist knowledge of particular communities, you will lead on approaches that reach a wide range of voices, including those who are seldom heard. You will oversee our Trusted Voices and community researcher model, ensuring local people are recruited, supported and empowered to gather high-quality insight that reflects the diversity of each neighbourhood. This work will help create a rich, grounded understanding of community priorities, enabling transparent, accountable and well-informed decision-making across the programme.

The Programme Manager (Place) will bring clarity, organisation and coordination to this work. You will maintain oversight of our role within the wider programme, share insight with partners, identify gaps in engagement, and support the VCSE sector to participate meaningfully in Pride in Place structures and discussions.

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about community-led change, place-based working, and strengthening the voice and influence of local people and VCSE organisations. You will be joining a programme at a formative stage, helping to shape how communities in Pendleton and Peel Green participate in long-term neighbourhood investment and decision-making.

Benefits

• 28 days’ holiday - rising to 30 days (after five years), plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for part-time)
• Enhanced company sick and maternity pay, subject to terms and conditions of service
• Pension scheme - with 7% employer contribution (and 1% mandatory employee contribution)
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Membership of the Hospital Saturday Fund via an employer subsidised scheme (optional and non-contractual)
• RHS family membership (optional and non-contractual)
• Development opportunities - we support and encourage our staff to progress in their careers (including formal training)
• A supportive working culture - we respect and support one another to do the best we can

If you would like to apply for the position of Programme Manager (Place), please submit your application on our website via the apply button.

Closing date: Noon on Monday 27th April 2026.

Interview date: Friday 8th May 2026.

We reserve the right to review applications before the closing date should we get sufficient applications.

Please note late applications will not be accepted.

About Spear York

In York, Spear is partnering with York Vineyard Church, which is part of the Vineyard network of churches.

The mission of York Vineyard church is to further the gospel of Jesus Christ, build up the faith of Christian believers, share in the training of workers, promote Christian education, advance the Kingdom of God and bring relief to the poor, the needy, the sick and elderly.

“Since hearing about the Spear Programme we have seen how well the coaching focusses on mindset, as well as skills, with the aim to support young people to thrive in the workplace, looking beyond just an initial job offer”.

Spear is a dynamic, growing youth employment charity that coaches young people to overcome barriers and thrive in work and life. We do this through the Spear Programme. 

Key Information:

• Salary: £24,000 FTE
• Part-time, Permanent - Tuesday to Thursday
• 28 days annual leave pro rata, including bank holidays
• Closing date: Wednesday 6th May (we interview on a rolling basis and may close the role early if we find the right candidate)
• Assessment day: Wednesday 13th May

For more information please read through our Job Specification and Work with us pack.

If you require any reasonable adjustments as part of the recruitment process please let us know.

We deliver the Spear Programme in partnership with York Vineyard Church. We'd love you to take a moment to read their statement of beliefs and do get in touch if you'd like to chat or have any questions.

Person Specification

• An active Christian, able to personally represent the values of Spear and York Vineyard Church, and a commitment to grow and learn spiritually and as a Christian leader.
• A confidence in group facilitation, and a desire to learn and understand coaching techniques.
• Passion for social justice and for working as part of the church to transform communities, especially supporting young people in employment or education.
• An ambitious and self-motivated individual with the ability to exercise initiative, prioritise workload and work well under pressure.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High emotional intelligence, and a sense of humour and fun!

Carers First is a charity that works directly with, and for unpaid carers, providing personalised information, advice and tailored support making it easier for those caring for someone else to continue living their lives to the fullest.

We have a committed, dedicated staff team and you could be just the person we are looking for to join us to make that valuable difference in carer’s lives. We live and work through our values in all that we achieve by being positive, collaborative and ambitious and we have clear plans to scale our reach, support and impact for carers.

About this role

As a Team Lead your responsibilities would include:

• Provide day-to-day leadership, motivating and empowering the team to thrive.
• Recruit, develop, and support staff in line with Carers First policies.
• Foster a positive culture of continuous learning, role-modelling best practice.
• Ensure quality through record checks, accurate database input, KPI monitoring, and effective workflow allocation.
• Work in co-production with carers to identify needs, develop solutions, and shape services.
• Identify service gaps, create new initiatives, and seek additional funding where possible.
• Manage a small caseload of complex cases, providing personalised advice and support.
• Contribute to budget monitoring and updates.

About you

To be successful in this role you will need:

• Experience of leading and managing remote teams, empowering and developing individuals.
• Strong track record of building partnerships across health and social care.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in service delivery.
• Experience of person-centred assessments, co-produced support plans, and safeguarding.
• Ability to work in co-production, developing innovative approaches to meet carers’ needs.
• Skilled in building positive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.
• Confident in using Microsoft Office, mobile technology, and social media platforms.
• Experience of using databases to record interventions and manage workflows.
• Personal integrity, emotional resilience, and alignment with the charity’s values.
• Self-motivated, flexible, collaborative, and able to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

We are looking for passionate people who are committed to the overall aims and objectives of the Charity. Carers First is committed to providing a supportive, vibrant, diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

Carers First Can Offer You

In return for your contribution, we have an amazing package of staff benefits including 26 days annual leave entitlement which increases with length of service, flexible working options, paid carers leave, access to our work-place pension, staff discount scheme, employee assistance programme and a Benenden Healthcare package. 

Whatever you are aiming to achieve in your career, we are here to encourage, help and support you grow, through our excellent training and development programmes.

How to apply

To apply for our exciting opportunity and make a real difference to the lives of carers, please download our Candidate Pack and click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application.

Applications can only be assessed if they clearly state how you meet each of the requirements in the Personal Specification.

Appointments are subject to Carers First receiving an appropriate disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service that we consider acceptable.

Interview Process

Following shortlisting, successful candidates will be contacted directly and invited to interview - Date to be confirmed.

Carers First is an Equal Opportunities Employer   

Positive      Collaborative      Ambitious

As we approach our 30th anniversary, we are thrilled to announce a brand-new role that will help shape the future of our organisation. This is an exciting chance for a Brazelton-trained visionary with clinical experience in the infant and perinatal field to make a real impact.

You will bring your expertise in the Brazelton approach, the NBAS and/or NBO, to the forefront of our work, ensuring it continues to guide everything we do. Collaborating with our team and partners in the field, you will help implement a bold strategic plan and play a central role in developing innovative services for the future.

If you are passionate about the Brazelton approach, embedding relationship-centred care into services and want to be part of an organisation that values compassion, knowledge, and collaboration, this role is for you.

Responsible to

The Director

Responsible for

Strategy implementation, service development, programme development and partnerships

Base

Hybrid with some in person meetings at 66 Devonshire Rd, Cambridge CB1 2BL 

Salary

£49,000 to £57,000 pro rata depending on experience (Band 7 AfC)

Working hours

22.5 hours per week (equivalent to 3 days per week)

Background

The Brazelton Centre UK aims to support the transition and adjustment to parenthood, focusing on the development and mental health needs of both babies and parents. Holding the baby in mind, the Centre, which is research and practice based, enables health professionals to facilitate relationship building between parents and their newborn at a time that is experienced as a major life event. The philosophy of the organisation is one of enabling effective service development, appropriate clinical intervention and sharing of expertise.

The Centre, established in Cambridge in 1997, is a training organisation for health professionals and researchers who work with babies and parents.We offer training courses in the Newborn Behavioural Observations System (NBO) and Neonatal Behavioural Assessment Scale. (NBAS). Brazelton Centre UK is one of four Centres in the world, teaching the NBO and NBAS, and the most active.Brazelton UK works in partnership with other organisations on training, surveys and research, including third sector organisations, universities, NHS trusts and organisations providing support for the under-fives. Almost 6,000 practitionershave undertaken the UK training courses in both the NBO and NBAS.

The Centre currently has a staff of 7 from different professional groups, in a range of roles, with 10 Trainers across the UK, able to teach specific courses as required. 

The charity has a Board of Trustees.The Strategy and Service Development Lead will report directly to the Director and be ultimately accountable to the Board of Trustees.

The Brazelton Centre UK has developed a new Strategic Plan for 2025–2030, setting out ambitious goals to increase reach and impact, expand research activity, develop new training programmes and increase engagement with parents.

This new post has been created to support the Director and Trustees in delivering this strategy and to lead the development of new programmes, partnerships and services that support the Centre’s mission.

This is a part-time post in the first instance and may entail some travelling in the UK and abroad for meetings. 

Key Responsibilities and accountabilities:

Strategic development and implementation

·Support the Director and Board of Trustees in the implementation of the Brazelton Centre UK’s strategic plan.

·Lead the coordination and delivery of strategic initiatives designed to increase the reach, impact and sustainability of the Centre’s work.

·Identify opportunities for innovation and development of services that support professionals working with babies and their families.

·Work collaboratively with the Director and staff team to translate strategic priorities into practical implementation plans and measurable outcomes.

·Monitor progress against strategic objectives and provide regular updates to the Director and Trustees

Service and programme development

·Lead the development of new programmes, services and initiatives in line with the BCUK’s strategic goals.

·Support the development of new training programmes and educational resources for health professionals and practitioners working with parents and babies.

·Work with colleagues, trainers and partners to design, pilot and evaluate new initiatives including antenatal and postnatal programmes.

·Work with the Director, staff team and trainers to support the development and implementation of online learning modules, webinars and digital educational resources that enhance the BCUK’s training and educational offer.

·Contribute to the development of digital resources that support professionals trained in the NBO and NBAS, including resources designed to strengthen implementation and reflective practice.

·Ensure that all programme development reflects current evidence and best practice in infant mental health, early development and parent–infant relationships.

Partnerships and collaboration

·Develop and maintain strong partnerships with external organisations including universities, NHS services, local authorities and voluntary sector organisations.

·Contribute to the development of professional networks and initiatives that support practitioners trained in the NBO and NBAS.

· Support the Director in identifying opportunities for collaborative projects, research partnerships and service innovation.

· Represent the Brazelton Centre UK in meetings, networks and events as appropriate.

· Promote collaborative working with partners in order to strengthen the Centre’s profile and maximise opportunities for impact.

Research and evaluation

·Support the Director and R&D Manager with the development of research collaborations and evaluation projects which strengthen the evidence base for the Brazelton approach.

·Work with academic and clinical partners to develop evaluation frameworks that demonstrate the impact of Brazelton Centre UK programmes and training, and support dissemination of learning and research findings.

·Assist in the identification of opportunities for research funding and collaborative projects.

Governance and organisational development

·Support the Director and Board of Trustees in the development and review of organisational policies, strategies and governance processes.

·Work closely with the Director to support the effective operational functioning of the Brazelton Centre UK, helping to ensure that organisational priorities and work programmes are delivered effectively.

·Provide leadership and coordination of agreed areas of organisational activity, working with the Director to support the management and development of the Brazelton Centre UK staff team.

·Support the Director in the development of staff objectives, work plans and monitoring of progress against agreed priorities.

·Contribute to the coordination and oversight of the delivery of programmes, projects and training activities to ensure they meet organisational standards and strategic objectives.

·Work collaboratively with the Director and colleagues to support the effective coordination of the Brazelton Centre UK Trainers and related initiatives.

· Ensure that work undertaken within the role reflects the values and principles of the Brazelton Centre UK.

General

This job description describes the major responsibilities and accountabilities associated with the post of Strategy and Service Development Lead.It is not intended to be exhaustive and it should not be assumed that other duties of a similar level/nature appropriate to the role of Strategy and Service Development Leadare excluded simply because they are not itemised.

Similarly, it should be recognised that the duties of the post may alter due to changes in legislation or policy or the business needs of the charity.Where such changes occur, training may be given where reasonable to enable the post-holder to undertake the new or varied work.

The Strategy and Service Development Leadis a key advocate for The Brazelton Centre UK and is expected to display the highest levels of personal and professional integrity at all times and to always act in a way which reflects positively on the organisation. 

Further details about the Centre can be found on the Brazelton Centre UK website.

For more information about the post and informal discussions, please contact Inge Nickell, Director of the Brazelton Centre UK.

Please refer to the attachment for person specifications. 

Right to Work in the UK: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.Proof of eligibility to work in the UK will be required from candidates who are shortlisted for interview.

Interview date is on the 30th June 2026 in Cambridge in person.