Childcare Assistant

JobStart Scheme; Larne; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community care provider in Larne is seeking individuals to assist in high-quality care and education for children aged 2-11. The role includes planning activities and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children in a nurturing environment. Candidates should have practical childcare experience and relevant qualifications such as a Level 2 Diploma. Flexible working hours are available. This position is part of the JobStart Scheme, catering to eligible benefit claimants.

Benefits

Free tea and coffee throughout your shift

2 weeks off in Christmas and July along with public holidays

Qualifications

• Practical experience in a childcare setting (paid or voluntary).
• Understanding of Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12 (NI).
• Awareness of child development and play-based learning.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of engaging, age-appropriate activities.
• Assist with daily routines including meals and hygiene.
• Encourage positive behaviour and social interaction among children.

Skills

Practical experience in a childcare setting

Understanding of Minimum Standards for Childminding

Awareness of child development

Education

Level 2 Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development

Safeguarding/Child Protection training

Paediatric First Aid

Job description

Overview

LARNE COMMUNITY CARE CENTRE to provide high-quality care and support for children aged 2‑11 in a safe, stimulating, inclusive environment. The role involves assisting with daily routines, planning and delivering age‑appropriate activities, and ensuring the welfare and safeguarding of all children in line with statutory requirements. Enhanced Access NI check will need to be carried out.

Staff Incentives

• Free tea and coffee throughout your shift
• 2 weeks off in Christmas and July along with Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Easter Tuesday

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of engaging, age-appropriate activities that promote learning and development.
• Assist with daily routines including meals, hygiene, and rest times.
• Encourage positive behaviour and social interaction among children.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment indoors and outdoors.
• Actively always promote and uphold safeguarding policies and procedures. Remain vigilant for signs of abuse, neglect, or harm and report concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
• Ensure children are always supervised and risk assessments are followed.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to GDPR and child protection legislation.
• Follow health and safety guidelines, including hygiene practices and accident reporting.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and communicate effectively with parents/carers.
• Attend staff meetings and training sessions as required.

Skills and Qualifications

• Practical experience in a childcare setting (paid or voluntary).
• Understanding of Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12 (NI).
• Awareness of child development and play-based learning.
• Minimum of Level 2 Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development (Northern Ireland) or equivalent or be willing to complete. Level 3 qualification desirable.
• Safeguarding/Child Protection training (in line with HSCT guidance).
• Paediatric First Aid (12-hour course recommended).

Further Information

Job start opportunity – working hours information. Standard hours: up to 25 hours per week. Flexible/Reduced Hours: May be available upon approval by a Work Coach. Additional Hours: The employer may offer extra hours depending on availability. This should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment. The job advert may end before the closing date if requested by the employer.

Application Information

Jobstart is open to working age benefit claimants who are deemed eligible by a Work Coach. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.