Early Years Team Leader — Lead Learning & Care (Pension, 25 Days)

Northside FRC; Limerick; On-site; EUR 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days annual leave

Privilege days

Up to 14 paid sick days

Employer-contributory pension scheme

Training, CPD and professional dev

Job summary

Northside Family Resource Centre is seeking an experienced Early Years Team Leader to oversee the day-to-day running of our early years service for children aged 0–6. You will lead curriculum planning, staff coordination, and ensure high standards of care and education in a community-focused setting.

Working with the Early Years Manager, you will supervise staff, support professional development, implement policies, and foster a nurturing, safe environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years’ experience in an Early Years setting.
• Experience working with children aged 0–6.
• Ability to meet childcare regulations independently and proactively.
• QQI Level 6 in Early Years Care and Education.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Take day‑to‑day responsibility for the care, learning, and development of children aged 0–6.
• Design and oversee curricula that support children’s emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development.
• Coordinate the planning and implementation of programmes tailored to individual and group needs.
• Support staff to plan and deliver high‑quality learning experiences.
• Lead the implementation of Aistear and Síolta, including monitoring progress and embedding best practice.
• Deliver Incredible Years or another recognised programme to young children (training may be provided).
• Review, evaluate, and continually enhance programmes and activities.
• Work collaboratively with the Early Years team to ensure a high‑quality programme.
• Coordinate staff rotas, timetables, and breaks to support smooth daily operations.
• Provide guidance, direction, and support to staff in their daily work.
• Act up in the absence of the Early Years Deputy Manager.
• Promote a positive, supportive, and professional team culture.
• Ensure awareness and implementation of all childcare policies and procedures.
• Support the ongoing development and updating of policies, procedures, and staff handbooks.
• Implement the Child Protection Policy and report concerns immediately to the Childcare Manager.
• Ensure students, volunteers, parents, and visitors adhere to all policies and procedures.
• Ensure accurate completion of roll books, attendance records, waiting lists, staff forms, and other documentation.
• Prepare and submit reports as required.
• Maintain high standards of record‑keeping and compliance.
• Engage in continuous professional development and support staff to do the same.
• Participate in training, workshops, and team development sessions.
• Stay informed of best practice and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Playful, nurturing interactions

Education

QQI Level 6 in Early Years Care and Education

QQI Level 7 in Early Years Care and Education

Job description

Northside Family Resource Centre is seeking an experienced Early Years Team Leader to oversee the day-to-day running of our early years service for children aged 0–6. You will lead curriculum planning, staff coordination, and ensure high standards of care and education in a community-focused setting.

Working with the Early Years Manager, you will supervise staff, support professional development, implement policies, and foster a nurturing, safe environment.