Childcare

Childcare is the profession devoted to the care and supervision of children which also includes the development of the child and their early education.

Childcare professionals work across a wide range of childcare service provision areas, from full time day care to child minding in their own home. Childcare professionals are required to provide an excellent standard of care to any children under their supervision and they must be able to cater for each child’s individual needs.

With the introduction of a number of regulations and government schemes the childcare industry is a fully regulated and monitored service in Ireland and becoming an increasingly popular career choice.

Pre-school services include pre-schools, montessori, play groups, naíonraí, day nurseries, crèches, childminders and other similar services looking after more than 3 preschool children. Each offers different types of programmes of varying depth which may suit children in different circumstances.

A QQI Level 5 Major Award, or recognised equivalent, is the minimum qualification those hoping to start a career in childcare must have. Room Leaders within the setting will be required to hold a QQI Level 6 Major Award, or recognised equivalent. 

To work in childcare you will, naturally, need to be good with children, as well as caring, empathetic, a good communicator and patient. Due to the importance of caring for children, pre-school childcare locations must open themselves to inspections by the child and family agency. Any person who is planning to work with children will be required to have Garda Clearance.