Working at Early Years Alliance

The Early Years Alliance is the largest and most representative early years membership organisation in England. A registered educational charity, we represent the interests of early years providers across the country, providing guidance, information and training to a network of over 28,000 members and supporters.

The Alliance is also proud to provide high-quality affordable childcare and education throughout the country, working in partnership with families and communities to create inclusive settings where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to explore the world around them.

We offer Alliance members high quality information and advice, produce specialist publications, run acclaimed training courses and deliver professional development and quality improvement support. We also provide Alliance members with access to 24-hour legal advice and comprehensive, competitive insurance tailored specifically for their early years service. 

A registered educational charity, we also deliver high-quality affordable education, care and family support to children and their families in areas of deprivation throughout the country. We are committed to learning through play, parental involvement and creating inclusive, nurturing environments for children in our care.

 

Julie Pearson, children’s services manager, talks us through her new role and reflects on her career progression over the past ten years at the Alliance.

What made you want to look for a new opportunity in the Alliance? How did you find out about the opportunity?

I have worked for the Alliance for over 10 years and have always sought opportunities to develop and progress my career. I started as an early years educator delivering services in Children’s Centres, before moving into the role of participation and engagement officer. Later, I was encouraged by my manager to apply for a maternity cover post as operational manager and was supported in developing the skills needed for that role.

After a few years, I was again supported and encouraged to progress and successfully applied for the position of early years development manager. In this role, I gained valuable experience, building on my skills and using my knowledge of the early years sector to deliver and develop training, as well as supporting colleagues and member groups.

My decision to apply for the role of children’s services manager came from my desire to continue progressing my career within the Alliance. I knew that the skills I had developed would support me in being able to do this.

What support was your manager/the Alliance able to offer to help you grow into your new role?

The Alliance has always been supportive and encouraging of progression. My managers have provided guidance, training and opportunities for development throughout my career journey.

In my current role a comprehensive induction has given me the skills I need, and the relationships I have built previously with other colleagues across directorates has enabled me to be confident in knowing where to go to and ask for advice and support.

One thing I’ve always enjoyed is working with others, especially across different team and that’s something I still get to do as CSM. It’s a fantastic way to keep learning, build knowledge, and gain a wider understanding of the sector and the Alliance.

How does your previous experience within the Alliance help you in your new/current role?

My previous roles have equipped me with a wide range of skills, including team management and support, while deepening my knowledge of early years. I have also worked extensively with partners from other directorates and external organisations, which I believe is essential for building knowledge and fostering positive working relationships.

Being empowered and coached by my previous manager has strengthened my confidence in my abilities. I have also benefited from the support of colleagues across the Alliance, including business managers, educators, administrative assistants, and directors. This collaborative approach has always been encouraged within the Alliance, helping me to develop knowledge and gain not only the necessary skills but also the wider support needed to succeed in my new role