Child and early years officers Salary
Median salary £29,347 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
About this role
Child and early years officers (2020 SOC) support quality improvement in early years provision, advising settings on EYFS compliance, safeguarding, inclusive practice and continuous professional development for practitioners.
Key responsibilities
- Assessing quality of childcare and early education settings
- Advising on EYFS statutory framework compliance
- Supporting safeguarding and inclusive practice
- Facilitating training for early years practitioners
- Monitoring funded childcare delivery and outcomes
Qualifications and entry routes
Requires an early years degree or equivalent professional qualification. Substantial practical experience in early years settings is essential. NPQEYL (National Professional Qualification in Early Years Leadership) is valued.
Career outlook
Expansion of funded childcare is increasing demand for quality oversight. Workforce development roles are growing across the sector.
Key skills
Common industries
- Local authorities
- Early years networks
- Childcare providers
- School-based nurseries
- Training providers
Data coverage
Median Salary
£29,347
Mean Salary
£29,367
Jobs (000s)
53k
Data Years
11 years
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£16,389
0-2 years
Mid Level
£21,854
3-7 years
Senior
£34,320
8-15 years
Potential career growth: +109% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 7.5%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
All Employees
£29,347
Full-time Only
£31,001
Full-time premium: +£1,654
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Salary forecast
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Lifetime earnings
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