Childcare Practitioner

Job Title: Full-Time Childcare Practitioner

Location: Kilkenny, Ireland

Hours: 35 to 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday)

Position Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Start Date: 1st September

Salary/Pay: Competitive hourly rate to be discussed, fully aligned with statutory Workplace Relations Commission Childcare ERO Rates (minimum €15.00+ per hour, scale adjusted upwards depending on your qualifications and experience).

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate, dedicated, and qualified Childcare Practitioner to join our dynamic service in Kilkenny. We have an incredibly supportive environment and we hope to find someone who will perfectly fit our wonderful team! In this role, you will help us maintain a safe, nurturing, and stimulating space where children can learn, play, and grow using child-centered curriculums aligned with Aistear and Síolta frameworks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver daily care: Ensure the safety, health, and well-being of all children in your care.
• Curriculum planning: Develop and implement age-appropriate, fun, and educational activities.
• Observation and tracking: Maintain accurate records of children's progress, milestones, and daily routines.
• Team collaboration: Work closely alongside our amazing team members to maintain high standards of early childhood education.
• Parent communication: Provide reassuring, professional daily updates to parents and guardians.
• Regulatory compliance: Adhere strictly to Tusla regulations, school policies, and health and safety standards. [1]

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: Minimum of a QQI Level 5 or 6 in Early Childhood Care and Education (or equivalent recognized qualification).
• Experience: Previous experience working in a registered childcare setting is highly desirable.
• Skills: Strong communication, excellent teamwork, and a warm, patient, and positive attitude.
• Vetting: Must be willing to undergo Garda Vetting and provide valid professional references.
• Certifications: Current First Aid Response (FAR) and Child Protection training are major advantages.

What We Offer

• Hourly rate explicitly tied to professional WRC ERO Guidelines to ensure fair pay progression.
• A genuinely supportive, friendly, and collaborative team culture.
• Ongoing professional development, training support, and career progression.
• Paid annual leave and public holidays.