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Job description

To support the delivery of high-quality, nurturing and enjoyable care across Naíscoil Mhachaire Rátha’s wrap-around services, including Lunch Club, afternoon provision and other extended childcare services. This role is not primarily focused on delivery of the pre-school curriculum. Instead, the emphasis is on providing a safe, relaxed, caring and stimulating environment where children can play, socialise, develop independence and enjoy their time with us beyond the main pre-school session. We are particularly interested in finding someone with the right attitude, energy and approach to working with children. Previous childcare experience and qualifications are welcomed but are not essential. We provide on-the-job training and can support and fund the successful candidate to work towards an appropriate recognised childcare qualification.

Responsibilities

• Provide warm, responsive care; supervise play, meals and routines; support children’s safety, wellbeing & development.
• Maintain a welcoming environment.
• Promote Gaeilge, and participate in training & Naíscoil activities.
• Work with families & colleagues.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Genuinely enjoys working with young children.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a wider team.
• Has good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Is willing to learn and develop professionally.
• Is willing to undertake relevant childcare, safeguarding and other training.
• Is willing to work towards an appropriate recognised childcare qualification where required.
• Understands the importance of children's safety, wellbeing, confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Has some basic Gaeilge and, importantly, a willingness to develop and use the language within the setting.

Desirable Skills

• Previous paid or voluntary experience working with children.
• A recognised Level 2, Level 3 or higher childcare/playwork qualification.
• Experience within a childcare, early years, playwork or wrap-around setting.
• An understanding of child development and children's individual needs.
• knowledge of the relevant childcare Minimum Standards.
• A good conversational or proficient level of spoken Irish.

Further Information

Training & Development. We recruit for attitude and potential as well as experience. The right person may not arrive with every qualification already in place. We provide on-the-job training, ongoing professional development and support towards gaining an appropriate recognised childcare qualification, including funding the qualification where applicable. We also provide in-house Irish-language classes and development opportunities. Applicants therefore do not need to be fluent Irish speakers, but should have some basic Gaeilge and, most importantly, be enthusiastic about developing and using the language. What We Offer: Funded childcare qualifications and professional development. On-the-job training and support. In-house Irish-language classes. Company pension. Employee benefits package. Opportunities for progression and advancement. A supportive, team-focused working environment. The opportunity to play an important part in a growing Irish-medium childcare service.