Early Years Practitioner (Maternity Leave)

About the role

We are looking for a dedicated Early Years Practitioner to cover a maternity leave period within our Respond Early Years Service in Midleton, Co‑Cork. You will join a purpose‑driven team that delivers high‑quality, play‑based education for young children, supporting their development in a safe and inclusive environment.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver and implement a play‑based curriculum aligned with the Aistear and Siolta national quality frameworks, both indoors and outdoors.
• Observe children, create learning stories and organise resources that reflect their emerging interests and abilities.
• Support children’s emotional, social and cognitive development and provide healthy snacks that meet dietary needs.
• Promote parental involvement and community engagement to enhance learning experiences.
• Follow all service policies, safeguarding procedures and ensure children’s welfare is paramount.
• Perform other reasonable duties as required by the Early Years Service Manager.

Required profile

• Commitment to high‑quality early education and play‑based learning.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a childcare team.
• Understanding of child protection and welfare guidelines.
• Flexibility to adapt to children’s needs and cultural diversity.

Required skills

What we offer

• Permanent contract with 39 hours per week (Mon‑Fri).
• Hourly rate €15.41‑€19.09 (offers typically mid‑range).
• 23 days annual leave plus additional company days.
• Further education and training assistance.
• Maternity, adoptive, surrogacy, fertility, early pregnancy loss, and other family‑friendly leave options.
• Sick pay, employee assistance programme, attendance bonus, and employee purchasing schemes.