Overview
We are seeking a dedicated, creative, and nurturing Early Years Educator to join our supportive and large Montessori teaching team.
The successful candidate will support children's growth and learning in a Montessori environment guided by the Montessori philosophy, along with national frameworks like Aistear and Síolta, ensuring safe, engaging, and inclusive experiences for all children.
Key Responsibilities
Plan, prepare, and deliver Montessori-based educational experiences, supporting the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children aged approximately 21/2 – 6 years (or appropriate range for school).
Observe and assess each child's development; maintain accurate, up-to-date records, portfolios, and reports.
Design and implement age-appropriate learning materials and lessons in accordance with Montessori principles.
Integrate national early childhood curricula/frameworks (Aistear, Síolta) and ensure alignment with the Early Years (Pre-School Services) Regulations.
Ensure the classroom environment is organised, safe, clean, and reflects Montessori standards (prepared environment; mixed ages where applicable; materials in order).
Supervise, guide, and mentor children; promote independence, respect, and responsibility.
Support the inclusion of all children; identify and respond to individual needs and interests.
Communicate regularly with parents/guardians: share observations, progress, daily reports, parent meetings.
Work as part of the staff team: collaborate in planning, share best practice, participate in meetings and training.
Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation (Childcare Act, Health & Safety, Child Protection, etc.) and health & safety policies; maintain required certifications (First Aid, Garda Vetting, etc.).
Take responsibility for duties related to the daily running of the classroom (tidying, preparing materials, arranging spaces, supervising transitions, snack times etc.).
Contribute to continuous professional development and maintain awareness of current best practices in early years education and Montessori pedagogy.
Qualifications & Skills
Essential:
Minimum QQI Level 5 in Early Childhood Care and Education or equivalent recognized qualification.
Montessori-specific qualification or diploma is a significant advantage.
Excellent knowledge of Aistear, Síolta, and Early Years Regulations in Ireland.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
Ability to observe, reflect, and adapt to meet individual children's needs.
Good organisational skills; ability to plan and prepare materials and activities.
Desirable:
Experience in a Montessori setting.
Higher level qualification (QQI Level 6 or above) in early childhood / Montessori education.
Training or certification in First Aid, Food Safety, Child Protection.
Experience with mixed-age groups.
Working Conditions & Benefits
Working hours: (e.g. Monday to Friday, 8:30am-6:30pm; term-time; hours depend on role and are negotiable).
Competitive salary (10% above standard rates) depending on qualifications and experience
Paid leave in accordance with national employment law, up to 6 paid training days, up to 7 paid sick days
Opportunities for further training and professional development including free regular Montessori education and training and 50% of relevant course fees paid by the company
Supportive team environment with strong management team
Other benefits: staff childcare discounts, free parking,
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: €*****-€***** per hour
Expected hours: 35 per week
Application question(s):
Location is either in Dundrum Montessori School or Monkstown Montessori School
Education:
Advanced/Higher Certificate (required)
Experience:
Early childhood education: 1 year (required)
Language:
Fluent English (required)
Licence/Certification:
TUSLA recognised Level 5 or higher Early Years Award (required)
Work authorisation:
Ireland (required)
Work Location: In person