Are you passionate about early childhood education and looking for a meaningful role in a purpose-driven organisation? At Respond, we believe in creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where children can thrive, and staff can grow. Our aim is to deliver high-quality, play-based education that makes a real difference. If you're ready to bring your skills, creativity, and care to our service then we want to hear from you!
Respond is committed to equal employment and growing a diverse workforce. If you do not "tick every box" there are likely other valuable attributes and skills that you have, that would make you a great fit for the organisation. We welcome applications from people of all cultures, nationalities, genders and from anyone who has historically faced social exclusion. If you feel this role is for you, then please apply.
Job Title: Early Years Service Manager
Location: Millpark, Red Forge Road, Blackpool, Co Cork
Reporting to: Regional Early Years Manager
Terms: Permanent- Part-Time
Hours: 30 hours per week, Monday - Friday 8.30- 2.30 pm
Salary: QQI Level 7 - €18 - €23.29 per hour
QQI Level 8 - €19 - €24.59 per hour
(Please note that offers are typically made at the beginning to mid-range of the advertised salary, based on skills and experience)
Staff Benefits:
Annual leave of 23 days plus additional company days
Further education and training assistance
Access to Company Pension Scheme
Maternity Leave pay
Sick pay
Employee assistance programme
Employee Purchasing Schemes
100% Attendance Bonus Holidays
Adoptive Leave
Surrogacy Leave
Fertility Support Leave
Job Purpose: This position will focus on the development, management, delivery and review of a full day Early Learning service and to lead a team of dedicated staff to deliver quality practice.
Core Duties & Responsibilities:
- To provide oversight to standards and work within policy framework and legislation.
- To undertake the duties of the designated person for the service under the Children's First. National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children.
- To oversee the implementation of the National Quality and Curriculum Frameworks, Siolta and Aistear.
- To model and nurture qualities practices in line with the preschool regulations
- To manage and develop the service appropriate to the needs of the community and ensure that quality and sustainability are central to the practice.
- To foster a culture of reflective practice and continuous development.
- To contribute to the development of models, strategies, practices and procedures of Respond work with children and families.
- To prepare reports as required in relation to the work in your area of responsibility.
- To facilitate team meetings and also liaise with members of the management team
Person Specification:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong Leadership qualities
- The ability to work in collaboration with a dedicated team
- Highly motivated to work on own initiative
- A professional and enthusiastic disposition
- Aptitude and empathy with children and families
- Commitment to high-quality Education and Care
- Flexible and adaptable
- Commitment to continuous professional development
- Change-management skills
- Analytical skills
Qualification & Experience
- Professional qualification in Early Education. Minimum level 7.
- A minimum of 3 years experience working in a childcare setting.
- Have a minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience in a related field.
- Good computer skills and knowledge of the Microsoft office suite.
- Report writing and administration skills.
- Garda Vetting will be required on an ongoing basis.
The closing date is by close of business on Friday 8th August 2025.
