Early Years Team Leader
Northside Family Resource Centre – Sunshine Childcare Service & Riverside Early Childhood Centre
Northside Family Resource Centre is seeking an experienced, motivated, and child-centred Early Years Team Leader to join our Early Years services.
Our centre is rooted in community, inclusion, and high-quality early childhood practice.
We are looking for a leader who can inspire, support, and guide staff while ensuring the highest standards of care and education for children aged 0–6.
About the Role
The Early Years Team Leader plays a key leadership role in the day-to-day running of the service.
Working closely with the Early Years Manager, you will oversee curriculum planning, staff coordination, quality practice, and the creation of a nurturing, stimulating, and safe environment for children.
Key Responsibilities
Childcare & Curriculum Leadership
Take day-to-day responsibility for the care, learning, and development of children aged 0–6.
Design and oversee curricula that support children's emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development.
Coordinate the planning and implementation of programmes tailored to individual and group needs.
Support staff to plan and deliver high-quality learning experiences.
Lead the implementation of Aistear and Síolta, including monitoring progress and embedding best practice.
Deliver Incredible Years or another recognised programme to young children (training may be provided).
Review, evaluate, and continually enhance programmes and activities.
Team Leadership & Operations
Work collaboratively with the Early Years team to ensure a high-quality programme.
Coordinate staff rotas, timetables, and breaks to support smooth daily operations.
Provide guidance, direction, and support to staff in their daily work.
Act up in the absence of the Early Years Deputy Manager.
Promote a positive, supportive, and professional team culture.
Childcare Facility & Safety
Ensure the highest standards of health, hygiene, and safety across the service.
Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised environment.
Ensure equipment and materials are properly maintained and fit for purpose.
Share responsibility for general areas of the facility.
Parents & Families
Work with the Early Years Manager to support parents in their parenting roles.
Build positive, respectful relationships with families.
Share relevant information regarding children's progress and needs.
Encourage parent involvement in the service.
Policies, Compliance & Child Protection
Ensure awareness and implementation of all childcare policies and procedures.
Support the ongoing development and updating of policies, procedures, and staff handbooks.
Implement the Child Protection Policy and report concerns immediately to the Childcare Manager.
Ensure students, volunteers, parents, and visitors adhere to all policies and procedures.
Administration & Reporting
Ensure accurate completion of roll books, attendance records, waiting lists, staff forms, and other documentation.
Prepare and submit reports as required.
Maintain high standards of record-keeping and compliance.
Training & Professional Development
Engage in continuous professional development and support staff to do the same.
Participate in training, workshops, and team development sessions.
Stay informed of best practice and regulatory requirements.
Person Specification
Essential
Minimum two years' experience working in an Early Years setting.
Experience working with children aged 0–6.
Ability to meet childcare regulations independently and proactively.
Minimum QQI Level 6 in Early Years Care and Education.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to relate to young children and engage in playful, nurturing interactions.
Ability to communicate effectively with parents regarding children's needs.
Patient, kind, fun-loving, and attuned to children's emotional and developmental needs.
Respectful, supportive, and non-judgmental approach to families.
Flexibility regarding working hours.
Desirable
Experience working in a community-based setting.
Experience supporting children experiencing deprivation.
Volunteer experience with children or young people.
Local knowledge.
QQI Level 7 in Early Years Care and Education.
Accreditation in a complementary area (e.g., Incredible Years, Play Therapy, Speech & Language, Circle of Security).
Hours of Work
Full-time 39-hour post, Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 18:00.
Reduced hours may be considered but not below 35 hours per week (salary pro rata).
Some flexibility for occasional evening work may be required (time-off-in-lieu provided).
Six-month probation period applies.
Salary
€31,200 – €34,100 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience.
Pro rata for 35 or 39 hours.
Staff Benefits
Northside Family Resource Centre is committed to supporting staff wellbeing and work-life balance.
Benefits include:
25 days annual leave (pro rata)
2 additional privilege days
Up to 14 paid sick days
Employer-contributory pension scheme
Family-friendly working arrangements considered
Access to training, CPD, and professional development opportunities
Supportive, community-focused working environment
Location
Northside Family Resource Centre, Limerick.
Additional Requirements
Garda Vetting in line with the National Vetting Bureau Acts *********.
Commitment to confidentiality at all times.
How to Apply
CVs will not be accepted.
All applicants must apply through HireHive and complete the full application form.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
For informal enquiries, contact: Alison Dore – ****** | **********
Northside Family Resource Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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