Policy and Communications Officer

Join Early Years - The Organisation for Young Children as an ASPIRE Policy & Communications Officer

Location: Early Years Headquarters, 6c Wildflower Way, Belfast, BT12 6TA

Hours: 37 hours per week

Tenure: Fixed Term Contract until 31 May 2029

Salary: Point 23 - 27 (£35,126.58 - £38,912.99)

Do you have a passion for making a meaningful impact in early childhood education?

Do you believe in the power of play to unlock potential?

Be part of our team and help shape the futures of children by fostering growth and learning through purposeful opportunities.

At Early Years, we are committed to fostering growth for both the children and our staff. Joining means an opportunity to enhance your skills, make a meaningful difference, and collaborate with a team that upholds dedication, compassion, and excellence in early years care and education.

In return, Early Years provides a comprehensive rewards package, including a competitive salary, 36 days of annual leave (pro-rata), inclusive of statutory/public holidays, a contributory pension scheme, options to purchase additional leave, and access to healthcare schemes.

The ASPIRE (Advancing Shared Partnerships through Inclusive Relationships in Education) Project is a shared education initiative, funded through PEACEPLUS, and aimed at providing direct and sustained contact between children from all backgrounds. This multi-year, cross border partnership is led by Northern Ireland Education Authority alongside Early Years, the National Childhood Network, Léargas and Fermanagh Trust. The ASPIRE Project will provide contact between children through collaboration between and within schools and in pre-school settings. The overall objective of the project will be to increase the number of children, educators and leaders engaged in sustained partnerships with those from different backgrounds. This will lead to both changes within educational settings and the wider community; building a more peaceful, prosperous and cohesive society.

The role

The post-holder will support the ASPIRE Project through developing and coordinating internal and external communications by proactively contributing content for websites, social media, media and stakeholder facing channels. Build and maintain external relationships in line with policy priorities and support strategic stakeholder engagement across education, community, government and research sectors. Network through the delivery of and attendance at meetings, events and conferences, while promoting programme learning, impact, evidence and good practice to support the long-term legacy and sustainability of ASPIRE.

We're looking for people who at the closing date have:

Essential criteria

• A relevant degree / professional level qualification.
• A minimum of two years practical experience of working within a UK or Irish public policy context.
• A minimum of two years' experience of writing for different audiences using a range of different media.
• A full current driving licence enabling the holder to drive in NI and have the use of a vehicle for official purposes or have access to a form of transport that will enable the candidate to meet the requirements of the post in full

Desirable criteria

• Experience of the wider policy sector relevant to key themes within the ASPIRE Project.

To find out more about the role and to apply, visit our website by clicking the Apply button below.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Friday, 9 October 2026.

For successful applicants, the interview date will be Monday, 26 October 2026.

Early Years is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to providing flexible friendly working conditions. As Protestants and males are currently known to be under-represented in the Organisation, we would particularly welcome applications from these groups.