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.
Location: Carraig Liath EYS, Midleton, Cork
Reporting to: Regional Early Years Manager
Terms: Full-Time permanent
Hours: 39 hours per week
Salary/Hourly rate (depending on Qualification)
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:
Act as a positive role model and be responsible for delivering and implementing a high-quality play-based curriculum under the guidance of the national quality frameworks Aistear and Siolta both indoors and outdoors. To guide, observe, stimulate and supervise children in a safe and caring environment as part of the childcare team.
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 promote 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/Qualifications:
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
Qualifications and Experience
Third Level qualification (Degree) in Early Care and Education is essential
A minimum of 2 years post qualification experience in a management role
Strong understanding and experience in Early Childhood Education and working with parent/carers
Experience in implementing the suite of Pobal funding programs
Experience in financial management and budgeting
Proficient in Microsoft office packages
Closing date for receipt of applications: 1st of September 2025
