Early Years Educator – Job Description
Location: Ark Childcare
Hours: As per contract and rota
About the Role
Ark Childcare is seeking a passionate, caring, and enthusiastic Early Years Educator to join our dedicated team. The successful candidate will provide high-quality care and education in a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment, supporting each child's learning, development, and wellbeing in accordance with Aistear, Síolta, Tusla Early Years Regulations, Children First, and Ark Childcare's policies and procedures.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide a safe, warm, caring, and stimulating environment where every child feels valued and supported.
- Plan, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate, play-based learning experiences that promote children's holistic development.
- Observe, assess, document, and support children's learning and developmental progress.
- Support children's daily care routines, including meals, sleep, toileting, hygiene, and outdoor play.
- Promote children's emotional wellbeing, independence, confidence, and positive behaviour through respectful interactions.
- Maintain high standards of health, safety, hygiene, and safeguarding at all times.
- Build positive and professional relationships with children, families, colleagues, and external professionals where appropriate.
- Ensure all records are completed accurately and confidentially.
- Follow Ark Childcare's policies, procedures, and code of professional conduct.
- Participate in staff meetings, training, supervision, and continuous professional development.
- Work collaboratively as part of the team to maintain a positive and inclusive learning environment.
- Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role as directed by management.
Essential Requirements
- Minimum QQI Level 5 in Early Childhood Care and Education (or a DCEDIY-recognised equivalent qualification).
- Knowledge of Aistear, Síolta, Tusla Early Years Regulations, and Children First.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- A genuine passion for supporting young children's learning and development.
- Garda Vetting and satisfactory references are required.
Desirable
- Previous experience working in an early years setting.
- Current Paediatric First Aid certification.
- Knowledge of inclusive practice and supporting children with additional needs.
Benefits
- On-site parking.
- Sick pay.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
- Supportive and inclusive working environment.
- Opportunities for career progression.
Swords, County Dublin: Applicants should be able to reliably commute or plan to relocate before commencing employment.
Licence/Certification
- QQI Level 5 in Early Childhood Care and Education (preferred).
Work Location: In person
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: €16.50-€17.50 per hour
Benefits:
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Swords, County Dublin: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Education:
- Advanced/Higher Certificate (preferred)
Experience:
- Childcare : 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person
