Lead Educator: QQI level 6 or higher
- Lead Educator
- Letterkenny
- Hours of Work:
- Company / Business Name:
- Closing Date for Applications:
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Job Description
About us
We are looking for a Lead Educator to join our early years team. We operate 40 weeks per year with sessions available from 9.00am to 1.00pm for children aged 2 years 8 months to 6 years.Guided by the principles of Aistear and Síolta, the Lead Educator will be responsible for leading and coordinating the provision of a quality Early Learning and Care curriculum that nurtures each child’s well-being, agency, voice, development and love of learning.
We believe that children and educators both thrive in an environment where there is time to slow down, build relationships and really engage. Our approach is intentionally relational and unhurried. Rather than trying to fit too much into each day, we give children time to explore, play, connect and follow their interests, while giving educators the time and space to be present and responsive.
With a high adult to child ratio, our educators are well supported and have the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with the children they work with. We are proud of our supportive team environment and value working collaboratively, sharing ideas and learning from one another.
Job Description Lead Educator
Hours: 23 to 24 hours per week.
Rate of Pay: ERO rates (€16.00 to €17.50) depending on QQI qualification level
Holidays :21 days paid holidays + Bank holidays
Other: Dedicated non-contact time for planning and paid continual professional development opportunities
Qualifications Required
Applicants must hold a minimum QQI Level 6 qualification or higher in Early Learning and Care (or an equivalent recognized qualification) that meets the DCEDIY Qualification Requirements for the Role of Lead Educator.
The applicant’s qualification must appear on the current DCEDIY List of Early Years Recognized Qualifications, or applicants must provide a Letter of Eligibility from the DCEDIY confirming that their qualification meets the qualification requirements for the role of Lead Educator.
Where the essential qualification criteria are not met, applications cannot progress to the next stage of the recruitment process
Experience Required
2 years’ experience working in an early years setting is required.
Experience as a Lead Educator or in a leadership role is desirable but not essential.
We would love to hear from experienced Level 6, 7 or 8 educators who are ready to take the next step in their career as a Lead Educator, as well as established Lead Educators who are looking for a fresh opportunity within a new service.
Whether you are stepping into the role for the first time or bringing valuable Lead Educator experience with you, we offer a supportive, encouraging environment where you can feel valued and continue to develop professionally
A mentoring programme is available to support educators who may not have previous Lead Educator experience but who demonstrate the ability, skills and knowledge to take on the role. This provides an opportunity to develop your confidence and leadership skills while being supported by experienced colleagues.
Experience in fostering inclusive practice in an early years’ setting or a related field is desirable.
Further Information
Interviews
Interviews will be conducted in person only. Remote or virtual interviews will not be offered.
Interviews are scheduled to take place from Friday, 18 September to Monday, 21 September 2026.
Right to Work in Ireland
Applicants must already have the legal right to work in Ireland. We do not provide visa or employment permit sponsorship for this position. Applicants must have valid permission to work in Ireland for the duration of their employment.
Applicants will be required to provide evidence of their right to work in Ireland as part of the recruitment process.
Garda and International Police Vetting
Garda Vetting is a mandatory requirement for this position.
International Police Vetting is also required for applicants who have lived outside the island of Ireland for more than six consecutive months while over the age of 18.
Applicants who meet this requirement must provide the relevant police clearance certificate(s). Where an applicant has previously resided outside the island of Ireland, the police clearance must cover the entire period of residence in the relevant country and, where applicable, must be dated after the applicant left that country.
Please note that all required Garda Vetting and International Police Vetting must be satisfactorily completed before an appointment can be made and before the successful applicant can commence employment or have access to or contact with children attending the service.
The position is expected to commence in October 2026, with an earlier start available where all necessary recruitment requirements, satisfactory references and required vetting are in place.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit the following when applying for the position:
- A cover letter.
- A current CV which includes the applicant’s current address.
- The names and contact details of two referees. Referees will only be contacted once a conditional offer of employment has been made.
- Copies of relevant qualifications and, where required, a Letter of Eligibility from DCEDIY.
- An International Police Vetting certificate or equivalent police clearance certificate, where applicable.
Applications should be submitted no later than 6:00 PM on Monday, 14 September 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.
Applications may be submitted by email, for the attention of the Manager, at manorcommunityplaygroup@gmail.com, or by post to:
Manorcunningham Community Child Care Centre
Ray
Manorcunningham
Co. Donegal
F92 EK81
