National Early Learning Consultants (ECED and Grade 1 transition)
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. 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
Nepal has made progress in Early Childhood Education and Development (ECED), but challenges remain in quality and readiness for primary education. Global research highlights the importance of quality early learning, appropriate pedagogy, teacher support, and effective transitions. There is interest in adapting evidence-based approaches, including structured pedagogy, to strengthen ECED practices within government systems. UNICEF seeks technical expertise to support the design, development, testing, and refinement of a Structured Pedagogy-Informed ECED Package and Grade 1 Transition Package. This will align with Nepal's curriculum and standards, aiming to improve ECED quality, enhance learning outcomes, and ensure a smoother transition to Grade 1.
Responsibilities
The consultants will collaborate with UNICEF and stakeholders to develop an integrated package that enhances children's learning and development in ECED, preparing them for Grade 1. This includes creating structured daily activity plans for ECED (192 days) and Grade 1 transition (at least 90 days), formative assessment tools, coaching guidance, school readiness and transition resources, parent/caregiver engagement materials, and practical implementation guidance for teachers, schools, and local governments. The consultancy will also involve testing and refining materials, tools, and implementation approaches based on feedback and evidence. Emphasis will be placed on ensuring the package is developmentally appropriate, inclusive, scalable, affordable, and adaptable to diverse contexts across Nepal. The assignment will deliver a technically validated ECED Package and Grade 1 Transition Package, including resources for implementation, monitoring, teacher support, and integration into government systems, contributing to improved school readiness and foundational learning.
Work Experience
Minimum 10 years of professional experience in Early Childhood Education, foundational learning, curriculum development, and teacher professional development. Demonstrated experience in developing teaching-learning materials, teacher guidebooks, or training packages for ECED/early primary education. Proven experience in designing and implementing programs focused on school readiness, early grade learning, transition to primary education, structured pedagogy, or teacher professional development. Experience in technical consultations and collaboration with government and development partners.
Skills
Curriculum Development, Teacher Training, Early Childhood Education, Pedagogy, Assessment Tools, Stakeholder Engagement, Program Design, Material Development, Child Development, Educational Research, Project Management, Cross-cultural Communication