Director of Early Help and School Readiness
Salford City Council
Up to £107,293
Salford is proud to be part of the national Families First Partnership Programme, an endorsement of their commitment to build a more integrated and responsive system of support, so no family is left behind. The council’s vision emphasises listening to children and families, promoting a sense of belonging and opportunity, and creating a Child Friendly City where every young person can fulfil their potential. Children and young people in Salford are supported by the City Mayor and a strong partnership of leaders from the council, NHS, schools, the University of Salford, housing providers, voluntary and community organisations, local businesses, the police, faith groups, Salford Community Leisure, the RHS, Salford Reds and Salford FC; all united in their commitment to Child Friendly City status.
Their children’s service has been recognised by Ofsted as Good overall with some areas judged Outstanding, notably in support for care leavers and leadership, reflecting strong multi-agency collaboration and an emphasis on high-quality practice. Early help provision, including Family Hubs, family partnership models and coordinated support with health and education partners, ensures families receive tailored, strengths-based support at the earliest opportunity.
THE ROLE
Salford City Council is seeking an ambitious and values-driven leader to join our Children’s Services Leadership Team as Director of Early Help and School Readiness. This is a role with strategic and operational responsibility for shaping and delivering Salford’s early years, early help and prevention agenda, ensuring children are school-ready and that families receive the right support at the right time. You will lead the transformation and continuous improvement of integrated, place-based early help services, working closely with partners across health, education, social care and the wider public sector to improve outcomes for children, young people and families.
INFORMATION
For further details, please click on the role profile and link to the council's website below, or for more information please contact Tim Farr on 07756 293292 / tim.farr@starfishsearch.com or Emily Lockwood on 0113 3607612 / emily.lockwood@starfishsearch.com
Role Profile CLICK HERETimeline
Closing date: 1st February 2026
Longlist meeting: 5/6th February
Technical interviews: 10/11th February 2026
Shortlist meeting: 13th February 2026
Final panels: 18th February 2026
Useful Links
How to apply
To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:
- Your CV (no more than three sides of A4).
- A supporting statement (no more than three sides of A4) that sets out why you think this role is the right move for you and how you meet the knowledge and experience criteria.
If our client is a member of the Disability Confident Scheme and you would like to apply under the scheme, please state that clearly at the top of your supporting statement, along with any adjustments you require to be made if invited for interview.
Apply