We invest in our children, and we invest in our staff too. We work in a safe, creative, and supportive environment. We have developed a comprehensive Staff Learning and Development Programme, ensuring you have all the support you need to deliver the highest quality early learning.
Unlike other childcare services, StartBright is publicly funded and governed by a volunteer Board of Management, and as a result, we are bound by strict professional standards. In other words, we look for the best and brightest talent out there to join our teams.
StartBright welcomes expressions of interest from qualified students who are seeking flexible work during mid-term breaks and holiday periods. We recognise the value that emerging professionals bring to early learning and care and we are committed to providing supportive, high-quality work experiences that complement your studies.
Working with StartBright offers an opportunity to gain meaningful, paid experience in a professional and welcoming environment while maintaining flexibility around your academic commitments.
What you can expect when working with StartBright includes:
• flexible work opportunities during mid-terms and holiday periods
• supportive teams who value learning, collaboration and professionalism
• hands-on experience in high-quality early learning and care settings
• opportunities to build confidence, skills and employability for future careers
• an organisation that values wellbeing, respect and positive workplace culture
StartBright is an excellent place for qualified students who are passionate about early years education and are looking to gain experience, earn income and feel supported while doing so. By submitting your CV, you can be considered for upcoming opportunities as they arise and become part of a talent pool aligned with the StartBright way of working.
StartBright welcomes expressions of interest from individuals who wish to be considered for future employment opportunities within the organisation. We are committed to building a strong, reflective and values-driven workforce and recognise the importance of engaging with professionals who share our ethos, even where no immediate vacancy is available. By submitting your curriculum vitae and relevant information, you consent to StartBright retaining your details securely on file for consideration should suitable roles arise in the future. All personal data will be managed in accordance with applicable data protection legislation and used solely for recruitment and workforce planning purposes.
At StartBright, our way of working is grounded in care, professionalism and a shared commitment to high-quality early learning and care. We believe that how we work together matters just as much as what we do.
Working at StartBright means being part of a supportive and values-led organisation that prioritises people at every level. Our approach focuses on creating positive, respectful environments for both children and staff, recognising that strong teams create the best outcomes.
What makes the StartBright way distinctive includes:
• a child-centred approach that values relationships, wellbeing and inclusion
• a strong culture of teamwork, reflection and open communication
• supportive leadership that values staff voice and shared decision-making
• ongoing opportunities for professional learning and career development
• a genuine focus on staff wellbeing, work–life balance and feeling valued at work
StartBright is a place where educators are trusted, supported and encouraged to grow. We are proud to foster a workplace culture where people feel respected, motivated and connected to a shared purpose. If you are passionate about early learning and want to be part of an organisation that invests in its people, StartBright offers a rewarding and positive place to work.
Educators required for StartBright Early Learning Centres CLG
StartBright Greenhills (Tallaght)
Afterschool Supervisor 25 hours x 38/52 weeks
StartBright is a registered charity that provides excellent childcare, early learning and school age childcare services to over 450 children in seven different locations every day. Children in our service come from a variety of backgrounds. We particularly support children coming from communities experiencing disadvantage, children with additional educational needs and children from families with multiple disadvantages. We employ over 80 staff and our services are delivered in a safe, supportive and creative environment.
Applications are being sought from suitably qualified and experienced people for the role of School Aged Childcare supervisor at StartBright Greenhills working with children aged from 5-12 years old.
We require a dedicated, flexible and enthusiastic individuals who are quality driven and have a child focused approach to school aged childcare and education. Candidates will be flexible to work out of term time (Easter, Summer, Mid terms etc) and work to 6pm.
Desirable - All applicants must have a minimum qualification of FETAC level 6 in Childcare or SNA/ Youth work Equivalent.
Essential - Experience in a School aged childcare setting.
The ideal candidate will have:
· A minimum qualification of Fetac Level 6 is required for the position.
· A minimum of two years in an early year’s leadership or similar role required
· An excellent knowledge of the Child Care Act 1991 [Early Years Services) Regulations 2016 and Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, 2017, required
· An excellent understanding and knowledge of all aspects of operating a quality early years environment required
· An excellent understanding and knowledge of the National Quality Framework.
· A good knowledge and understanding of child protection and the duties and responsibilities under Children First including the role of the Designated Liaison Person.
· A good knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety legislation and regulations as they apply to the operation of an early years’ service
· Experience of supervising and managing staff and students
· Experience of working with parents as partners
Please note short-listing may apply.
StartBright Early Learning Centres Company Ltd by Guarantee is an equal opportunities employer.
Early Years Educator required for Maternity Leave cover StartBright Greenhills
(1 Year Contract)
(Tallaght) 35 hours per week (10-6pm)
StartBright is a registered charity that provides excellent childcare, early learning and school age childcare services to over 450 children in seven different locations every day. Children in our service come from a variety of backgrounds. We particularly support children coming from communities experiencing disadvantage, children with additional educational needs and children from families with multiple disadvantages. We employ over 80 staff and our services are delivered in a safe, supportive and creative environment.
Applications are being sought from suitably qualified and experienced people for the role of Early Years Educator at our StartBright Greenhills centre, located in Tallaght.
We require a dedicated, flexible and enthusiastic individuals who are quality driven and have a child focused approach to early childhood education.
All applicants must have a minimum qualification of FETAC level 6/7 in Childcare.
Experience in an early years setting is essential.
The ideal candidate will have:
Interested candidates should send a current CV and cover letter
Please note short-listing may apply.
StartBright Early Learning Centres Company Ltd by Guarantee is an equal opportunities employer.
StartBright is a registered charity that provides excellent childcare, early learning and school age childcare services to over 450 children in seven different locations every day. Children in our service come from a variety of backgrounds. We particularly support children coming from communities experiencing disadvantage, children with additional educational needs and children from families with multiple disadvantages. We employ over 80 staff and our services are delivered in a safe, supportive and creative environment.
The Role:
The role of the Centre Manager is to lead, manage, train, support the team to deliver high quality, inclusive early childhood care and education for children and families.
The centre manager will take responsibility for running the centre and liaising with StartBright CEO, Quality Mentor, Finance and Operations Managers in ensuring high quality and best practice standards are maintained at the service in accordance with national best practice, legislation and regulation.
We are seeking an experienced, well organised, ambitious, enthusiastic, results focused team player to join our centre management team. The successful candidate will have prior experience in a similar role and demonstrate a high level of attention to detail, adaptability and the ability to multi-task diverse responsibilities. The candidate will be self-motivated and have the ability to work both as part of a team and on their own initiative.
The work will be guided by the principles and standards of Síolta: The National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education and Aistear: The Early Childhood Curriculum Framework & Childcare Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016:
Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children 2017:
Early Childhood Quality and Regulatory Framework (QRF):
The Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Charter Guideline for Early Childhood Care and Education:
Tusla Early Years Quality and Regulatory Framework
First 5 - A Whole-of-Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families 2019-2028
Nurturing Skills: The Workforce Plan for Early Learning and Care and School Aged Care 2022-2028
Code of Professional Responsibility and Code of Ethics for Early Years: Department of Children and Youth Affairs etc.
Location: StartBright Bawnogue, Clondalkin, Dublin 22
Hours: 35 hrs per week (excluding breaks). Flexibility is required.
Centre operates from 7.30am – 6pm.
Report to: Chief Executive Officer, The Board of Management
Key responsibilities: Quality of service delivery
• To provide leadership, direction and support team to ensure all designated settings within area of remit are fully compliant, financially sustainable, are operating in line with legal requirements and meeting the Early Years Regulations and National Quality Standards.
• Support the team to develop and actively implement quality pedagogy inclusive of a range of policies and practices, in alignment with Síolta and Aistear and the Early Childhood Quality, Regulatory Framework (QRF), LINC and the Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Charter Guideline for Early Childhood Care and Education
• To manage the Early Years Hive service provider portal for programmes funded by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY).
• Support, encourage and lead the team through change and development at StartBright and sector level
• Engage in delivery of evidence based/ informed practice and research national and international models of quality practices, philosophy and pedagogy.
• Engage in Community of Practices with other StartBright centre managers for knowledge and information sharing, build culture and support new quality developments within centres.
• Develop QIPP and quality goals with educational leaders, educators and Quality Mentor to enhance quality of pedagogy.
• Develop and ensure that logic models are relevant, current, regularly reviewed and updated and to meet the evolving situation of the early education setting in partnership with the Quality Mentor, Educational Leader, LINC, Family Facilitator/PCF and Chief Executive Officer.
• Support educators in best practice in relation to governance and advising on how to build effective partnerships with parents and the wider community.
• Support Educational leaders to induct new educators into the StartBright way and delivering training both at centre level and one to one to assist with upskilling and quality improvement.
• Support and assist Operations Manager and/or CEO with the recruitment process of educators.
• To ensure HR and people management activities are carried out in accordance with StartBright ELC policy and practice within designated settings.
• Address performance management issues promptly and effectively in line with company policy.
• To manage compliance with Mandatory training, DES, HSE, Pobal and identify areas of further CPD personally and for the team.
• Supporting and advocating for student placements by liaising with colleges.
• Liaising with ABC development projects, family resource centres, Better Start, SDCCC, Barnardo’s, focus groups and other relevant stakeholders and organisations.
• Actively seek engagement with research and new initiatives supported by evidence based and evidence informed practice and evaluation.
• Engage in impact measurement in line with strategy and best outcomes for children and families.
• Work co-operatively with other support services within the education sector, the Child & Family Agency - Tusla, the Department of Education and Skills, the local City and County Childcare Committee, Voluntary Childcare Organisations and the community and voluntary sector as relevant to the role.
• Support Pobal, Tusla and Department of Education inspection process.
• Supporting development and review of service policy and procedures.
• To build culture and employee engagement and help make StartBright a ‘Great Place to Work’.
Key administrative responsibilities:
• Complete and maintain records and reports pertaining to the role.
• Ensure all administration back-up and support on progress is kept updated by maintaining all relevant systems.
• Provide periodic progress updates to the Operations Manager, Quality Mentor and Chief Executive Officer
• Review, develop and maintain efficient and effective administrative and information systems.
• Participate in and assist in the organisation of special events, visits and any other activities required.
• Participate in external evaluation of the service.
• Ensure impact measurement and research engagement it maintained and developed upon.
Continuous Improvement
• Participating in training relevant to the post and bringing evidence based best practice and concepts to the attention of the senior management team and centre team.
• Research, develop and implement best practices and standards to ensure quality Early Childhood Education & Care
• Discussing continuous improvements and quality of service at the monthly management meetings and implementing appropriate changes as agreed with the senior management team.
• Discussing continuous improvements and quality of service at the quarterly manager meetings and facilitating/implementing appropriate changes at centre level.
• Ensuring continuous professional develop across the organisation is both relevant to day to day but also capturing strategic vision and implementation.
Other
• Any other duties within the general requirements of the role that may be assigned as appropriate
Essential Experience Requirements:
• A Minimum third level qualification at Level 8 (or equivalent) on the National Framework of Qualifications in Early Childhood Education and Care / or an equivalent professional qualification in a related profession
• A Minimum of 3 years experience of working in a similar leadership and management role
• Knowledge of and experience in best practice for service delivery to children and families
• Knowledge of the Early Child Care and Education Sector and understanding of challenges facing the Sector
• Experience of managing/ leading a team alongside initiatives, projects and strategy
• Be able to demonstrate substantial, in-depth understanding of inclusive early childhood care and education - Aistear/ Síolta and the Early Childhood Quality and Regulatory Framework (QRF) alongside additional national and international philosophy and influence
• Knowledge of working in under resourced social and economic areas and an understanding and experience of social inclusion and additional need issues
• Experience of working in multi-disciplinary teams and experience of inter-agency working with children and families
• Experience of managing a team of staff to deliver high quality services
• Experience of managing training needs and professional development of staff
Desirable Criteria:
• International educational perspective, knowledge and experience
• Relevant experience in a wider management role
• Experience of working in the community/voluntary sector
Person Specification:
• An interest in providing better outcomes for children and families
• Good humoured; self-motivated; calm under pressure; ability to work with others co-operatively; good time management; practical.
• Strong leadership qualities with vision and initiative – self starter with ability to work without supervision
• Experience of working within a team and have the ability to build and maintain relationships
• An interest in further learning and training
• Energy, drive, ambition to succeed
Note
• The successful candidate will be required to complete the relevant Garda Vetting procedures
How to apply
Interested candidates should visit www.startbright.ie for more information on the services we provide and send a current CV and Cover Letter specifically stating the position applied for to: The Manager via email to manager@startbright.ie
Or alternatively;
via post to: The Manager, StartBright ELC Head Office, 1st Floor, ACE Enterprise Park, Bawnogue, Clondalkin, D22
The closing date for receipt of applications is strictly no later than1pm on Friday the 4th July 2025.
Please note short-listing may apply.
StartBright Early Learning Centres Company Ltd by Guarantee is an equal opportunities employer.
Family Participation Facilitator (Full-time, 35 hour/ 52 weeks)
Location: StartBright ELC, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.
Purpose of the Role: The purpose of the Family Participation Facilitator (FCF) role is to support parents in StartBright Early Education Centres and School Aged Childcare, leading to improved outcomes for children and families.
Employer: StartBright ELC
Based: StartBright Deansrath & St Ronan's Early Education and School Aged Childcare Services, Deansrath, Clondalkin. D22
Main Duties and Responsibilities
The Family Participation Facilitator will:
• Actively engage with parents to build on their parental capacity through provision of one to one, non-judgemental, confidential support
• Work collaboratively with parents to identify their specific needs and make referrals as appropriate
• Implement and support parents’ participation in a range of parental engagement initiatives including workshops, coffee mornings, parent and toddler groups, family events and parent support programmes
• Conduct hands on and informative workshops to support parents and proactively improve the home learning environment
• Collaborating with other staff in the Early years and School Aged Childcare service, Parent Carer Facilitator colleagues, other professional bodies and stakeholders (Area Based Childhood Programmes, South Dublin County Partnership, Early Childhood Ireland etc) and promote the range of available services to affect the best outcomes for parents and children
• Participate in team meetings, communities of practice (COP), ongoing training and supervision and proactively identify training relevant to the role, share learning from any training or events attended
• Support the monitoring and evaluation of the FCF role and its associated activities
• Deliver/Support attendance in evidenced-based and evidence-informed parent programmes to parents in Clondalkin / Assist in linking families with local/appropriate services and agencies. Encourage their attendance at these services.
• Deliver/Support training to the early years sector in relation to StartBright vision, mission and values
• Adhere to KPIs set out by StartBright to support their Strategic Plan (2024-2026) and quality goals
• Support impact measurement through data collection, evidence and evaluation
• Share knowledge with other team members to maintain standards.
• Actively participate as a member of the designated team/service.
• Seek the advice of relevant personnel when appropriate/as required.
• Promote a culture that values diversity and respect in the workplace.
• Work within current legislation, relevant policies and procedures, guidelines and protocols within the designated team/service
• Adhere to the supervision policy.
• Any other duties that may be requested from time to time in agreement with StartBright.
Administrative
The Family Participation Facilitator will:
Education & Training
The Family Participation Facilitator will:
Person Specification and Attributes
The Family Participation Facilitator will hold:
Third level degree in Early Childhood Education and Care, Social Work/Care, Psychology, Social Sciences (or equivalent relevant discipline). Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 7 (or higher)
Required skills, competencies and/or knowledge
• A minimum of three years’ experience of working with parents
• Understanding of the needs of vulnerable parents and families from areas of disadvantage
· Understanding in trauma informed practice
• Experience of assessing adults’ needs, group facilitation and supporting adults to engage with further education and training
• Experience of establishing contacts and networking with other agencies and groups
• Ability to communicate clearly and work closely with an interdisciplinary team
• Excellent communication skills with a professional approach to the role
• Work well as part of a team but also confident and capable of working on own initiative.
Professional Knowledge
• Awareness of children and young people’s participatory practice
• Sufficient professional knowledge to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the role.
• An understanding of child protection risk and harm
• An understanding of a community development approach to child protection and family support.
• An understanding of the impact of poverty and disadvantage on communities and especially its impact on parenting.
• An understanding of children’s holistic developmental needs within the context of their family and community.
• An understanding of children’s rights.
• An understanding of evidenced informed; human rights based; outcomes focused; integrated; and preventative child and family services.
• Understanding of external supporting bodies that families may liaise with/need to liaise with to support best outcomes(Meitheal, AsIam, Primary Care, HSE, TUSLA, etc)
Planning, using Judgement and Delivering a Quality Service
• Demonstrate a commitment to delivering a quality service that is child-centred and safe
• Display awareness and appreciation of families and the ability to empathise with and treat others with dignity and respect
• Demonstrate the ability to make effective decisions and solve problems especially with regard to families
• The capacity to plan and manage resources in an effective and resourceful manner
• The ability to manage self in a busy working environment including the ability to prioritise workloads
• Flexibility and openness to change
• The ability to evaluate information and make effective decisions in a timely manner.
Teamwork
• The ability to resolve conflict and empower people with sometimes quite divergent points of view
• Initiative and innovation in identifying areas for service improvement
• Promote a culture that values diversity and respect in the workplace
• Demonstrate effective team skills.
• Demonstrate flexibility and openness to change
• Demonstrate ability to utilise supervision effectively
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Effective interpersonal and communication(verbal and written) skills
• The ability to empathise with and treat others with dignity and respect
• Display effective communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to collaborate with colleagues, families, etc.
• Experience in impact measurement, evidence gathering and data analysis
• Diligent recording of data, evidence and feedback to support StartBright’s impact measurement and key performance indicators(KPIs)
Desirable:
• Experience in conducting and delivering training, workshops, information sessions and/or evidence based programmes to adults
• Experience in conducting and delivering evidence based programmes to children and young people
Employment and Reporting Arrangements
The Family Participation Facilitator will be employed by StartBright ELC and report to the Centre Manager of the centre and the Quality Mentor. S/he will work closely with all the educators on site, the Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors at intervals.
This post is for a one-year contract with the possibility of extension in accordance with funding and financial sustainability of StartBright ELC.
Further information on salary and benefits can be found on the job post on indeed.com. see below for more information on how to apply.
How to apply
Interested candidates should visit www.startbright.ie for more information on the services we provide and send a current CV and Cover Letter specifically stating the position applied for to: The Manager via email to manager@startbright.ie
Or alternatively;
via post to: The Manager, StartBright ELC Head Office, 1st Floor, ACE Enterprise Park, Bawnogue, Clondalkin, D22
Please note short-listing may apply.
StartBright Early Learning Centres Company Ltd by Guarantee is an equal opportunities employer.
Early Years Educators required for StartBright St. Finian's
Applications are being sought from suitably qualified and experienced people for the role of Early Years Educator at our StartBright Balgaddy centre, located in Lucan.
We require a dedicated, flexible and enthusiastic individuals who are quality driven and have a child focused approach to early childhood education.
All applicants must have a minimum qualification of FETAC level 6 in Childcare.
Experience in an early years setting is essential.
The ideal candidate will have:
Interested candidates should send a current CV and cover letter specifically stating the position applied for to:
Manager@startbright.ie
Or alternatively via post to:
The Manager, StartBright ELC Head Office, 1st Floor, ACE Enterprise Park, Bawnogue, Clondalkin, D22
Please note short-listing may apply. Must hold a valid working visa/right to work in Ireland
StartBright Early Learning Centres Company Ltd by Guarantee is an equal opportunities employer.
Most hold relevant work permits/visas
Relief Early Years Educators
Applications are being sought from suitably qualified and experienced people for the role of relief staff at StartBright Bawnogue and other StartBright Centres.
We require dedicated, flexible and enthusiastic individuals who are quality driven and have a child focused approach to early childhood education.
All applicants must have a minimum qualification of FETAC level 5 in Childcare.
The ideal candidate will have:
· A sound working knowledge of Síolta & Aistear
· An inclusive approach to practice
· Knowledge of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) (Registration of School Age Services) Regulations 2018
· An understanding and knowledge of the National Quality Framework and of all aspects of operating a quality early years environment required understanding and knowledge
· A good knowledge and understanding of child protection and the duties and responsibilities under Children First
· A good knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety legislation
· Experience of working with parents as partners
· A flexible approach to their work
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
· An ability to work in partnership with other Educators
· Prepared to complete a Garda Vetting form and additional mandatory training required for the role
· Be naturally warm and respectful towards children & their needs
Must hold valid work permit/visa
Interested candidates should send a current CV and cover letter specifically stating the position applied for to:
Manager@startbright.ie
Or alternatively via post to:
The Manager, StartBright ELC Head Office, 1st Floor, ACE Enterprise Park, Bawnogue, Clondalkin, D22
Please note short-listing may apply.
StartBright Early Learning Centres Company Ltd by Guarantee is an equal opportunities employer.
StartBright ELC are looking for an AIM educator for our centre in StartBright Balgaddy.
We require a dedicated, flexible and enthusiastic individuals who are quality driven and have a child focused approach to early childhood education.
All applicants must have a minimum qualification of FETAC level 5 in Childcare.
Experience in an early years setting is essential.
The ideal candidate will have:
· A sound working knowledge of Síolta & Aistear
· An inclusive approach to practice
· Knowledge of the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services)(Registration of School Age Services) Regulations2018
· An understanding and knowledge of the National Quality Framework and of all aspects of operating a quality early years environment required understanding and knowledge
· A good knowledge and understanding of child protection and the duties and responsibilities under Children First
· A good knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety legislation
· Experience of working with parents as partners
· A flexible approach to their work
· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
· An ability to work in partnership with other Educators
· Prepared to complete a Garda Vetting form and additional mandatory training required for the role
· Be naturally warm and respectful towards children & their needs
Interested candidates should send a current CV and cover letter specifically stating the position applied for to:
The Manager – manager@startbright.ie
Or alternatively via post to:
The Manager, StartBright ELC Head Office, 1st Floor, ACE Enterprise Park, Bawnogue, Clondalkin, D22
Please note short-listing may apply.
StartBright Early Learning Centres Company Ltd by Guarantee is an equal opportunities employer.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to be part of the StartBright team, we’d love to hear from you. Send your CV and cover letter to manager@startbright.ie , or alternatively you can post it to: StartBright Head Office, Ace Enterprise Park, Bawnogue Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22
