Independent Advisor - YMCA Stepping Stones Nursery

Independent Advisor - YMCA Steeping Stones Nursery

Volunteer Post

Based: YMCA Stepping Stones, St Marks Road, Derby

Commitment: Four Board Meetings per year, plus an AGM, as well as any Celebratory and Fundraising events you choose to attend.

Make a real difference in early years.

Join our passionate team at YMCA Stepping Stones and help give children the best possible start in life. This is an exciting time to join YMCA Stepping Stones; we are currently expanding our provision and developing our rooms and outdoor spaces.

We are looking for an individual enthused by early years to act as an independent advisor for our Nurseries Board. You will help shape how we grow, manage, and future proof our provision, as well as helping us to provide a safe, stimulating, and positive environment for our children. The ideal individual will bring strategic thinking and an understanding of governance to help us achieve our mission and drive meaningful growth.

What you’ll be doing:

·       Support our mission in creating a safe, fun and stimulating environment for children aged 0-5

·       Contribute to inclusive decision making and policy development

·       Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including safeguarding, inclusion, Ofsted and EYFS best practice

·       Act as an ambassador for the organisation

·       Provide strategic oversight and governance

Who we’re looking for:

An individual with operational knowledge in:

·       Knowledge of safeguarding, equality and diversity

·       Knowledge of SEND in Early Years and primary school settings

·       A child-focused, creative, and caring approach to supporting children aged 0–5

·       Knowledge of the EYFS framework, KCSIE guidance, and national wraparound childcare programme standards

Knowledge of family support and poverty reduction initiative

What we offer:

·       The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives and support families across Derby

·       A chance to help shape the future direction of a growing nursery provision

·       Experience contributing to governance and strategic decision-making within a respected local charity

·       Opportunities to share your expertise and develop new skills

·       A welcoming, passionate and values-driven team environment

·       Networking and collaboration opportunities with YMCA Derbyshire leaders and trustees

·       The chance to contribute to innovative early years provision and community impact

·       An opportunity to attend celebration, fundraising and community events

·       Induction, support and ongoing guidance in the role

Particularly welcoming Applications from:

We recognise that Boards are strongest when they reflect a diverse range of perspectives, and we are actively seeking to ensure our board reflects the communities we serve. We are especially welcoming applications from people from underrepresented backgrounds, including but not limited to individuals from ethnically diverse backgrounds, people with a disability, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from low socio economic backgrounds.

If you are unsure you have the relevant experience but are interested in applying, please contact us.

Further Information: 

YMCA Stepping Stones Nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its children. All roles are subject to references and an enhanced DBS Check.

For an informal chat, please contact: Angelina Brett Angelina.Brett@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk.

Application Process 

We want applying to feel straight forward – and we’re happy to have a conversation before you decide.

Step 1 – Get the full picture: Reach out to us if you have any initial questions and are interested in applying.

Step 2 – Apply: Please send an expression of interest for the position to @angelina.brett@ymcaderbyshire.ro.uk or @theo.vesey@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk.

Step 3 – Have a Chat: You’ll be invited to have a conversation with our Head of Childcare & Early Years, our Chair, and members of our Trustee Board to learn more about the role and the organisation.

Step 4 - Decisions and Appointment: Applications will be reviewed and appointments confirmed at the next board meeting, which you will be invited to shadow.