Early Years Educator – Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, Ireland

Are you a qualified Early Years Educator passionate about supporting young children's learning, development and well-being?

We are currently recruiting an Early Years Educator to join a welcoming childcare service in Kilconnell, near Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, offering a full-time position, an hourly salary of €14.00–€15.50 and affordable accommodation available nearby.

This is an excellent opportunity to develop your career in Ireland while working in a supportive, child-centred environment, with accommodation available to help make your relocation easier.

About the Employer

Our client is an established childcare provider based in Kilconnell, Co. Galway, committed to delivering high-quality early childhood education and care.

The service focuses on creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where children can learn, explore and develop through play-based and age-appropriate educational experiences.

With an emphasis on children's individual needs, social development and well-being, the team promotes a positive learning environment that encourages independence, creativity and confidence.

About the Role

As an Early Years Educator, you will work as part of a friendly and professional childcare team, supporting children's learning, development and daily activities.

You will help create a welcoming, inclusive and engaging environment where children feel safe, valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

The position is full-time, with 40 working hours per week, and is offered on a one-year contract with the possibility of extension.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate educational activities that support children's learning and development.
• Create a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment that promotes children's physical, emotional, social and intellectual development.
• Implement the Aistear Curriculum and Síolta Framework in daily educational practice.
• Encourage children's independence, creativity, communication and social interaction through play-based learning.
• Observe, assess and document children's learning experiences and developmental progress.
• Support children's daily routines, including meals, hygiene, rest and transitions between activities.
• Promote positive behaviour and respectful interactions among children.
• Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health, safety and hygiene.
• Build positive and professional relationships with parents and families.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and management to ensure high-quality childcare and educational practices.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum QQI Level 5 qualification in Early Childhood Education or an equivalent qualification recognised in Ireland.
• EU citizenship or an existing legal right to work in Ireland without employment permit sponsorship.
• Previous experience working with young children in a childcare, preschool or early years setting is desirable.
• Good understanding of child development and play-based learning.
• Familiarity with the Aistear Curriculum and Síolta Framework is an advantage.
• Good English communication skills.
• A caring, patient and enthusiastic approach to working with young children.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Strong organisational skills and a professional attitude.
• Willingness to complete all required pre-employment checks, including Garda Vetting.

Salary & Benefits

• Hourly salary ranging from €14.00 to €15.50, depending on qualifications.
• Full-time position, 40 hours per week.
• One-year contract, with the possibility of extension.
• Four weeks of paid annual leave, including two weeks at Christmas and one week in August.
• Educational Assistance Programme.
• Affordable accommodation available nearby.
• Opportunity to gain valuable professional experience within the Irish early childhood education sector.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available near the childcare centre, making this an attractive opportunity for candidates relocating to Ireland.

• Weekly rent: €100.
• Approximate monthly rent: €433.
• Electricity and heating bills are charged separately.
• Located close to the childcare centre.