It is a dynamic city - the fastest growing capital in Europe. Cardiff has lots to offer in terms of sport, culture, bars, restaurants, shopping and excellent transport links.
- And what is Flying Start?
It's a Welsh Assembly Government initiative, which builds on parts of the Sure Start programme. It aims to make a difference to the life chances of children under four years old.
- How would you describe the atmosphere at Flying Start?
Teams work collaboratively to meet the needs of local children and their families and are challenging traditional ways of working. Staff say the atmosphere is one of excitement, enthusiasm and commitment.
- So what roles are available?
Flying Start recruits highly motivated and committed individuals with experience of working in the early years. A range of positions are available including language and play teaching assistants; bookstart co-ordinators; health visitors; home liaison officers, and parent nurturing programme co-ordinators.
- Are the benefits good?
The council, in partnership with trade unions and Chwarae Teg, an agency for the economic development of women in Wales, embarked upon a Work-Life Balance Strategy in 2006. This aims to enhance the current range of flexible working policies available at Cardiff Council and explore flexible ways of working.
- What are the main challenges?
The main challenge is management of change as the programme builds on the foundations developed through Sure Start while also trying to integrate with mainstream services. Other challenges are recruiting skilled professionals to deliver services in an integrated way, developing new childcare provision and looking at how information across agencies can be shared legally and appropriately.
