National Consultant to Provide technical support to the Dept.of Basic Education’s ECD Directorate on early learning & development, Education/Early Childhood Dev., Pretoria, South Africa, 13.5 months, office-based/remote+travel 593089

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence. At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

Job Purpose

The National Consultant will provide technical support to the Department of Basic Education’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) Directorate, focusing on early learning and development. This role is crucial for advancing the ECD agenda within South Africa, ensuring that young children have access to quality early learning opportunities. The consultant will work under the joint supervision of the Director responsible for ECD at the Department of Basic Education and the Early Childhood Development Officer at UNICEF. The assignment aims to leverage expertise to strengthen the ECD sector, contributing to improved learning outcomes and overall child development. This consultancy is an opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of children by enhancing the foundational stages of their education and development.

Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for providing expert technical assistance to the Department of Basic Education’s ECD Directorate. This includes supporting the implementation of early learning and development programs, contributing to policy development and refinement related to ECD, and advising on best practices in early childhood education. The role involves analyzing current developments in early learning and basic education, with a specific focus on articulating play-based learning within the national curriculum frameworks (NCF and CAPS). The consultant will also be expected to produce clear, concise, and high-quality written outputs, such as reports and recommendations. Additionally, the consultant will collaborate with UNICEF and the Department of Basic Education to ensure alignment with strategic objectives and to foster innovation within the ECD sector. This may involve facilitating workshops, providing training, and contributing to knowledge management on early learning and development in the South African context. The consultant will also be expected to manage their work effectively to meet tight timeframes.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant professional work experience in early learning, education, or programme management within an education field. Experience in curriculum development and sound analytical and policy experience are preferred.

Skills

Early learning and development, ECD sector knowledge (South Africa), Current developments in early learning and basic education, Play-based learning articulation, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Writing skills, Interpersonal skills, Willingness to travel, Valid driver's license, Proactive approach, Ability to work under tight timeframes

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