Flying Start Manager – CCLD Level 4+ (Cardiff, Term Time Only)

About Us Blue Door Childcare (Cardiff) is expanding its Flying Start childcare provision and we're looking for a qualified Flying Start Manager (minimum CCLD Level 4 in Childcare Learning and Development). This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a leadership role in an early years childcare setting, shaping practice, driving quality, and ensuring every child has the best start in life.

About the Role

As Flying Start Manager, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day management and delivery of Flying Start within the setting. This includes leading and supporting practitioners, ensuring compliance with Flying Start standards, and working in close partnership with multi-agency professionals. The role is primarily focused on our 2-year-old provision, but you may also assist with school transfers for children aged 3–11 — either by supporting transfers in person or liaising with the team to ensure appropriate cover is in place.

During school holidays, there may also be opportunities to pick up additional hours within our Holiday Club provision. You'll work closely with the wider team of professionals — including Health Visitors, Speech & Language Therapists, Advisory Teachers, Dietitians, Educational Psychologists, and the Parenting & Inclusion Teams — to deliver the very best outcomes for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Flying Start provision on a daily basis. Line-manage, support, and mentor Flying Start practitioners. Ensure compliance with Flying Start standards, CIW regulations, and audit requirements. Oversee planning, observations, and tailored learning for individual children. Liaise effectively with multi-agency partners to support holistic child development. Assist with school transfers for children aged 3–11, either personally or by liaising with team members to arrange cover. Maintain a safe, welcoming, and stimulating environment. Drive continuous improvement in practice and provision.

Essential Requirements

Minimum:

• CCLD Level 4 in Childcare Learning and Development (applications without this will not be considered)

Desirable:

• Level 5 qualification or willingness to work towards it.
• Proven experience supervising or managing staff within an early years or childcare setting
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills
• Good understanding of Flying Start, Foundation Phase, or equivalent early years frameworks
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and professional standards

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rate: £13.70 per hour
• 30–35 hours per week (to be confirmed)
• Term Time Only, plus optional paid holiday club hours
• Fully funded training and CPD opportunities
• Paid training in core areas (First Aid, Safeguarding, Behaviour Management, etc.)
• Supportive, flexible working environment
• Excellent staff perks and wellbeing programme, including:
  • Childcare discount,
  • Cycle to work scheme,
  • Free/discounted meals
  • Private medical and dental insurance
  • Employee wellbeing support
  • Referral bonuses

If you're an experienced childcare professional with a passion for leadership and a drive to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you. www.bluedoorchildcare.com