Early Years Quality and Compliance Specialist

Are you passionate about early childhood education and looking for a meaningful role in a purpose-driven organisation? At Respond, we believe in creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where children can thrive, and staff can grow. Our aim is to deliver high-quality, play-based education that makes a real difference. If you’re ready to bring your skills, creativity, and care to our service then we want to hear from you! Respond is committed to equal employment and growing a diverse workforce. If you do not “tick every box” there are likely other valuable attributes and skills that you have, that would make you a great fit for the organisation. We welcome applications from people of all cultures, nationalities, genders and from anyone who has historically faced social exclusion. If you feel this role is for you, then please apply. Role: Early Years’ Quality and Compliance SpecialistLocation: Carraig Liath EYS, Midleton, CorkReporting to: Early Years Service ManagerTerms: 39 hours per week (Mon-Fri)Contract: Permanent full-timeSalary: €17.50 - €22.65 per hour(Please note that offers are typically made at the beginning to mid-range of the advertised salary, based on skills and experience)Staff Benefits:Annual leave of 23 days plus additional company daysFurther education and training assistanceMaternity Leave paySick payEmployee assistance programmeEmployee Purchasing Schemes100% Attendance Bonus HolidaysAdoptive LeaveSurrogacy LeaveFertility Support LeaveEarly Pregnancy Loss LeaveJob Purpose:This position will focus on the development, oversight, delivery and review of compliance and quality practice within the service.  Responsibilities              Oversee consistent regulatory compliance with regards to - Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016 and the Child Care Regulations (The Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) (Amendments) Regulations 2016.Complete regular internal audits on compliance, in collaboration with the full team, to share learning and nurture a culture of compliance.Ensure all recording related to Fire, Health and Safety are maintained correctly and up to date.Develop a service quality improvement plan, based on service performance in onsite Pre-school Quality Assessment Audits, conducted by the National Quality Mentor.Ensure staff are kept up to date with policies, procedures and best practice guidelines.Model and mentor best practice interaction strategies with children. Identify any gaps in practice and provide focused support where required.Oversee the implementation of the National Quality and Curriculum Frameworks, Síolta and Aistear. Provide guidance to Room Leaders and Key Workers on planning and evaluating a curriculum that supports the learning and development of each child.Oversee use of the Cor Advantage App. Review anecdotes, planning and portfolio development. Monitor children’s learning journeys and regularly evaluate to ensure developmentally appropriate outcomes.Foster a culture of reflective practice and continuous development.Ensure the physical and emotional well-being of all children is prioritised.Work collaboratively with parents to support children’s individual learning and development needs.Prepare reports as required in relation to the work area under your responsibility.Person Specification & ExperienceProfessional qualification in Early Education. Minimum level 7 desirable.A minimum of 3 years’ experience working in a childcare setting.Have a minimum of 2 years supervisory experience in a related field.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and leadership skills.Aptitude and empathy with children and young people.Good computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft office suite.Report writing and administration skills.Demonstrate a strong teamwork ethic and a capacity to work under own initiative.Garda Vetting will be required on an ongoing basis. Closing date for receipt of applications: Friday 11th of July 2025