Afterschool Practitioner (School Age Childcare)
Location: Co. Meath
Job Type: Part-Time
Hours: Monday to Friday (Afternoon Hours) (Term time only)
Salary: €15.00-16.00 per hour (depending on qualifications and experience)
About the Role: We are looking for a caring, enthusiastic and energetic Afterschool Practitioner to join our friendly School Age Childcare (SAC) team. The successful candidate will help create a safe, inclusive and stimulating environment where children can learn, play and thrive after the school day.This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with school-aged children, is creative, organised and passionate about delivering high-quality childcare.
Key Responsibilities
Childcare & Supervision
- Provide a safe, caring and welcoming environment for all children.
- Supervise children at all times, ensuring their safety and wellbeing.
- Build positive and respectful relationships with children and their families.
- Promote children's confidence, independence and social development.
- Support children to develop friendships and positive social skills.
- Ensure every child feels included, respected and valued.
Activity Planning
- Assist in planning and delivering fun, engaging and age-appropriate activities.
- Organise arts and crafts, games, sports, STEM activities, music and outdoor play.
- Encourage creativity, curiosity and active participation.
- Adapt activities to meet the interests and needs of individual children.
Health, Safety & Safeguarding
- Follow all Child Protection and Safeguarding procedures.
- Maintain high standards of health, safety and hygiene.
- Complete daily safety checks where required.
- Record accidents, incidents and medication accurately.
- Administer medication in line with service policies (where trained).
- Follow emergency procedures, including fire evacuation drills.
- Ensure the environment is clean, safe and well organised.
Teamwork
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to provide a high-quality service.
- Support the Afterschool Manager with the daily running of the service.
- Attend staff meetings and training sessions.
- Share ideas to improve activities and the overall programme.
- Assist with setting up and tidying away equipment each day.
Communication
- Communicate professionally with parents and guardians.
- Share relevant information regarding children's wellbeing and daily activities.
- Report any safeguarding or welfare concerns promptly.
- Maintain confidentiality at all times.
Administration
- Maintain accurate attendance registers.
- Complete daily records and documentation as required.
- Follow all policies and procedures.
- Assist with preparing resources and maintaining equipment.
Essential Requirements
- Experience working with school-aged children in a childcare, education or youth setting.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- A caring, patient and enthusiastic approach.
- Knowledge of child safeguarding and health and safety practices.
- Garda Vetting (or willingness to obtain).
- Current Children First training (or willingness to complete).
Desirable
- QQI Level 5 or higher in Early Learning and Care (or recognised equivalent).
- Occupational First Aid certification.
- Experience in School Age Childcare.
- Knowledge of inclusive practices and supporting children with additional needs.
Personal Qualities
- Friendly and approachable.
- Reliable and punctual.
- Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
- Creative and energetic.
- Organised and adaptable.
- Patient and caring.
- Excellent teamwork skills.
- Professional and trustworthy.
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly pay.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Supportive and welcoming team environment.
- Opportunities for career progression.
- Paid training where applicable.
- Employee wellbeing initiatives.
- A rewarding role making a positive impact on children's lives.
If you are passionate about working with children and want to be part of a dedicated and supportive team, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and help create a fun, safe and enriching afterschool experience for children in our care.
Pay: €15.00-€16.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
