Respond is one of the largest housing associations in Ireland, providing social housing and homeless services. Our vision is that ‘everyfamily and individual in Irelandwill have high- quality housing as part of a vibrantand caring community’. We are growing rapidly in response to the housingcrisis and are now looking for the right person who has the passion and skills to help us realise our vision.

Role: Early Years Practitioner

Location: Daphne View, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford

Reporting to: Early Years Childcare Manager

Terms: Specified Purpose (Maternity Leave Contract)

Working Hours: Monday to Friday (8:45am to 5:15pm)

Job Purpose:

To act as a positive role model and be responsible for the delivery and implementation of a high quality play-based curriculum under the guidance of the national quality frameworks Aistear and Síolta both indoors and outdoors. To, guide, observe, stimulate and supervise children in a safe and caring environment as part of the childcare team.

Core Duties and Responsibilities:

• To promote and adhere to the services ethos and mission of Respond.
• To follow the policies and procedures of the service at all times.
• To conduct observations that guide planning for the programme of activities.
• Organise materials and resources to ensure that they reflect the children’s emerging interests and abilities.
• To implement a play-based programme that encourages independence and fosters the growth of self-esteem within all children.
• To support children’s emotional, social and cognitive development.
• To assist in providing healthy snacks which meet the growing needs of children and reflect variation in culture or dietary needs.
• To develop and support parental involvement strategies that enhance children’s learning experiences.
• To ensure that the welfare of children is paramount in accordance with Children First; National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children.
• Promote the services in the local community and wider area to assist and support the quality and sustainability of the service.
• To perform other reasonable and relevant duties as may be required from time to time.

Person Specification:

• Commitment to high-quality early education.
• The ability to work in collaboration with a dedicated team.
• Highly motivated to work on own initiative.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A professional and enthusiastic disposition.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous professional development.
• Garda Vetting will be required as part of the recruitment process on an ongoing basis.

Education/ Qualifications:

• A minimum of FETAC Level 5 in Early Years Education.
• One year of post paid qualification experience of working in early years.
• Strong understanding and experience in Early Childhood Education.

Applications should be submitted by clicking here on or before the closing date of Friday, 10th May 2024.

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.