Early Years Practitioner – ECCE room assistant

Early Childhood Ireland; Barefield; On-site; EUR 17,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

Over the Rainbow Early Learning Centre Ltd in Barefield, Ennis, Co. Clare is seeking a qualified Early Years Practitioner for a fixed-term maternity cover role. The position runs 8:30am–12:00pm, Monday to Friday during term-time, supporting the room leader with activities for children aged 3 to 5½ years.

Required is NFQ Level 5/6 in childcare, with at least two years' experience and two references. Strong teamwork, communication and knowledge of child development are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum Fetac Level 5/6 in Childcare (NFQ).
• Two years’ experience in a similar role is essential.
• Two references from childcare positions are required.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Kindness, warmth and responsiveness to children.
• Good communication with children, staff and parents.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations.
• Basic computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Create an unobtrusive atmosphere for child development.
• Care for children daily and coordinate age-appropriate activities.
• Document child progress using ChildPaths software (training provided).
• Conduct group activities and one-on-one skills development.
• Communicate effectively with parents.
• Support children's emotional, social, physical and cognitive development.
• Supervise indoor/outdoor play and ensure safety and wellbeing.
• Encourage independent learning and implement Aistear routines.
• Attend staff meetings and training as required.

Education

Fetac Level 5/6 in Childcare NFQ

Job description

Over the Rainbow Early Learning Centre Ltd is looking for a qualified, energetic, caring and enthusiastic Early Years Practitioner with a minimum qualification of Fetac Level 5/6 in childcare. Relevant experience in a similar role is essential. The role is to support and assist the room leader in providing quality care and education to children aged 3 to 5 and a half during their 3-hour ECCE session.

Starting date

January 2027

Location

Barefield, Ennis, Co. Clare

Contract and hours

Fixed term contract. Hours: 8:30am - 12:00pm Monday to Friday, Term time only - Maternity Cover.

Qualifications and experience

Minimum Level 5/6 in Childcare on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)

• Minimum of two years’ experience in a similar role
• Two references from Childcare Positions
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Kindness, warmth and responsiveness to the needs of children
• Good communication and relating skills with children, staff and parents
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations
• Basic computer skills
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations

Duties and responsibilities

• Create an unobtrusive atmosphere in which both you and the children can develop.
• Care for children on a daily basis, fulfilling their needs in a friendly and engaging manner and co-ordinate the implementation of age-appropriate activities.
• Document children’s progress through ChildPaths software. Training will be provided.
• Conduct group activities and also provide one on one care for targeted skills development in the children.
• Communicate effectively with the parents.
• Demonstrate an understanding of child developmental milestones by supporting children’s emotional, social, physical and cognitive development.
• Supervise indoor and outdoor play activities and ensure children’s safety and well-being.
• Provide opportunities for children to become independent learners.
• Implement the Aistear curriculum through daily routines as well as short-, medium- and long-term planning.
• Clean, tidy and store equipment and toys after use
• Attend monthly staff meetings and undergo training as required.
• Perform other reasonable and relevant duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Salary

Competitive salary based on qualification and experience.

Closing date for applications

30 November 2026