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 2½ – 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: €16.22-€19.59 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