Early Years Educator – Portlaoise, Co. Laois, 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 an established childcare service in Portlaoise, Co. Laois, offering a permanent, full-time position with an hourly salary of €15.50, excellent employee benefits and affordable accommodation arranged by the employer.

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 Portlaoise, Co. Laois, 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.

As part of an expanding childcare organisation, the service also offers opportunities for professional development and career progression.

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 permanent and full-time, with 40 working hours per week throughout the year.

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 of €15.50.
• Gross monthly salary of approximately €2,684.60.
• Permanent, full-time employment.
• 40 working hours per week, throughout the year.
• 20 days of paid annual leave per year.
• Annual bonus.
• Birthday bonus.
• Support for further education and Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
• Career progression opportunities within expanding childcare services.
• Team events and social activities.
• Accommodation arranged by the employer.
• Opportunity to work in a welcoming and supportive childcare environment.

Accommodation

The employer can arrange accommodation in a shared house, providing a convenient and affordable option for candidates relocating to Ireland.

• Private bedroom in a shared house.
• Shared bathroom facilities.
• Weekly rent of €130.
• Approximate monthly rent of €563.
• Heating and electricity included in the rent.
• Accommodation arranged through the employer.

This accommodation arrangement provides an opportunity to settle into your new surroundings while beginning your career in Ireland.