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Head of Early Years (Including Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) – Sidmouth, Devon – Permanent

? Salary: Circa £31,000
? Location: Sidmouth, Devon
? Hours: Full-time
? Start: ASAP

Are you an inspiring Early Years leader with a passion for delivering exceptional educational and safeguarding standards? Do you thrive in roles where vision, care and operational excellence come together? This is a fantastic opportunity to shape a high-quality EYFS provision within a respected and forward-thinking setting.

Carrington Wood is delighted to be supporting our client as they look to appoint a Head of Early Years, who will also act as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL). This is a pivotal leadership role, combining strategic direction, hands-on management and a central responsibility for safeguarding within the EYFS.

What You’ll Be Doing:

✔ Providing clear, aspirational leadership for the Early Years provision
✔ Driving high standards of teaching, learning and curriculum delivery
✔ Leading and developing EYFS staff, including performance management and supervision
✔ Ensuring compliance with EYFS statutory requirements and school policies
✔ Acting as a Deputy DSL, responding to safeguarding concerns and supporting referrals
✔ Maintaining accurate safeguarding records via CPOMS
✔ Building positive relationships with parents, carers and external agencies
✔ Overseeing EYFS resources, staffing, health & safety and operational management
✔ Supporting emotional, social and physical wellbeing across the Early Years setting

What We’re Looking For:

? A minimum Level 4 qualification in Early Childhood Studies, Education or similar (e.g. BA Early Years, QTS, EYTS, PGCE)
? Strong leadership experience within an Early Years setting
? Excellent understanding of EYFS statutory framework and outstanding practice
? Safeguarding experience, with willingness to maintain DDSL training
? Confident use of CPOMS, Tapestry and relevant digital systems
? A calm, resilient and reflective leader who is trusted by children, families and colleagues
? Strong communication, organisational and people-management skills

Why You’ll Love This Role:

✅ Salary circa £31,000
✅ Free lunch provided
✅ Free on-site parking
✅ Pension scheme
✅ Short-term on-site accommodation available for the right candidate while securing long-term housing
✅ Play a central role in shaping a nurturing, high-quality EYFS environment
✅ Join a committed and supportive school community
✅ Opportunities for professional development and safeguarding training
✅ A meaningful leadership role with real impact on children and families
✅ Work within a values-led organisation with strong safeguarding culture

? Apply now for a confidential conversation about this Head of Early Years opportunity in Sidmouth, Devon.

Carrington Wood is a specialist recruitment consultancy supporting organisations across Cornwall, Devon and the wider South West. We recruit across Finance, Administration, HR, Operations and Leadership on both a temporary and permanent basis