Exciting opportunities at dscne
- DSCNE
- Jun 3
- 6 min read
The Down Syndrome Centre North East (DSCNE), established in 2017, is a parent-led charity dedicated to providing essential support and services to children with Down syndrome and their families in the North East region of Ireland, including Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, Meath and surrounding areas. Our mission is to empower individuals with Down syndrome to achieve their full potential and lead independent, fulfilling lives. www.dscnortheast.ie
We have several vacancies below, and the roles may be combined for the right candidate.
Education Specialist (Preschool/Early Intervention
Education Specialist (School Age)
Teens Social Club Lead
Starting dates are September 2025.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to complete an application form along with a CV and or cover letter/proposal to:
In Writing: Caitriona Crosby, Centre Manager, Units 15-18 CTEK 1, Riverside Road, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, A81 FY61
Via Email: manager@dscnortheast.ie
Deadline: Friday 4th July, 5pm.
Education Specialist (Preschool/Early Intervention)
Job Title | Education Specialist (Preschool/Early Intervention) |
Reports To | Centre Manager |
Contract Type | Independently contracted/contract of services (candidates must have their own professional indemnity and public liability insurance |
Hours | Weekday mornings and/or afternoons during school term time. Additional hours such as holiday periods may also be negotiated. |
Remuneration | The contract rate of pay is per class. Rate of pay will be negotiated with the successful applicant, commensurate with experience. |
Role Overview
We are seeking a compassionate and qualified Education Specialist (Preschool/Early Intervention) to join our dynamic team. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering our Early Intervention and School Readiness programmes, designed for children aged approximately 2.5 to 6 years. These programmes focus on promoting preschool and school readiness through a structured, play-based approach during weekly two hourly term time classes. Class sizes are small (approximately 5 to a group) and are supported by a dedicated Support Worker and/or volunteers in addition, as necessary.
The role may be combined with other positions such as Education Specialist (School Age) and Teens Social Club Leader for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
Programme Delivery: Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate activities that support communication, speech and language, communication, learning, fine and gross motor skills, and social-emotional development.
Individualised Support: Assess each child's needs and abilities to tailor interventions that promote growth and independence.
Collaboration: Work closely with parents, therapists, and support staff to ensure a holistic approach to each child's development.
Monitoring Progress: Regularly evaluate and document children's progress, adjusting strategies as needed to meet individual goals.
Professional Development: Stay informed about best practices in early childhood education and special education to continually enhance programme quality.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
Level 8 Degree in the following fields:
Education & Teaching – Special Education, Early Childhood Education
Therapeutic & Developmental – Speech & Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Educational Psychology
Other relevant areas
Minimum of 1 years’ experience working with children, preferably in groups and/or individual settings (ideally paid experience)
Knowledge of early childhood development and evidence-based intervention strategies.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with families and multidisciplinary teams.
Commitment to creating an inclusive, nurturing, and fun learning environment.
This role is subject to Garda Vetting (DSCNE will arrange)
The candidate must have complete and adequate liability coverage including professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
The candidate must be available weekly during the working day, and school term time.
Desirable:
Minimum of 2 years' experience working with children with additional needs, preferably in early intervention settings (voluntary or paid experience)
Lámh training – if not held, a willingness to complete
Good knowledge of See and Learn, Handwriting without Tears, Numicon, or other communication and learning tools.
Registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland.
Education Specialist (School Age)
Job Title | Education Specialist (School Age) |
Reports To | Centre Manager |
Contract Type | Independently contracted/contract of services (candidates must have their own professional indemnity and public liability insurance |
Hours | Weekday afternoons (after school hours) and/or weekends during school term time. Additional hours such as holiday periods may also be negotiated |
Remuneration | The contract rate of pay is per class. Rate of pay will be negotiated with the successful applicant, commensurate with experience. |
Role Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and compassionate Education Specialist (School Age) to join our team. The successful candidate will lead our school age education programme, designed to support children with Down syndrome in developing all areas of the curriculum such as social skills, numeracy, literacy, handwriting, arts, gross and fine motor skills through a structured, play-based approach during weekly and fortnightly term time classes. This role involves planning and delivering engaging sessions that cater to the individual needs of each group, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. Groups sizes are kept relatively small and are supported by a dedicated Support Worker and/or volunteers in addition, as necessary.
The role may be combined with other positions such as Education Specialist (Preschool/Early Intervention) and Teens Social Club Leader for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
Programme Delivery: Lead and facilitate the school age education sessions, ensuring they are engaging, developmentally appropriate, and tailored to the needs of each group and individuals.
Individualised Support: Assess and monitor each child's progress, adapting activities and strategies to support their development effectively.
Collaboration: Work closely with parents, therapists, and other team members to ensure a holistic approach to each child's development.
Resource Management: Utilise and maintain necessary resources and materials for the programme, ensuring they are accessible and effective.
Professional Development: Engage in ongoing development to stay current with best practices such as numeracy, literacy and handwriting instruction.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
Level 8 Degree in Education, Special Education, or a related field such as social care or social work.
Minimum of 1 years’ experience working with children with additional needs, preferably in groups and/or individual school age settings (ideally paid experience)
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with families and multidisciplinary teams.
Commitment to creating an inclusive, nurturing, and fun learning environment.
This role is subject to Garda Vetting (DSCNE will arrange)
The candidate must have complete and adequate liability coverage including professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
The candidate must be available weekly (after school hours) and/or during weekends during school term time.
Desirable:
Minimum of 2 years' experience working with children with additional needs, preferably in early intervention settings (voluntary or paid experience)
Lámh training – if not held, a willingness to complete
Experience with Lámh, See and Learn, Handwriting without Tears, Numicon, or other communication and learning tools.
Knowledge of handwriting development and fine motor skills.
Registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland.
Teens Social Group Leader
Job Title | Teens Social Group Leader |
Reports To | Centre Manager |
Contract Type | Independently contracted/contract of services (candidates must have their own professional indemnity and public liability insurance |
Hours: | Weekday afternoons (after school hours) and/or weekends during school term time. Additional hours such as holiday periods may also be negotiated |
Remuneration | The contract rate of pay is per class. Rate of pay will be negotiated with the successful applicant, commensurate with experience. |
Role Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and compassionate leader to facilitate our Teens Social Group that meets each month. This group provides teenagers with Down syndrome the opportunity to come together in a supportive and fun environment, fostering meaningful friendships and promoting social inclusion. The group engages in a variety of age-appropriate activities, including sports, games, and outings, encouraging participants to try new experiences in a safe space. Groups are supported by a dedicated Support Worker and/or volunteers as required.
The role may be combined with other positions such as the Education Specialist (Preschool/Early Intervention) and Education Specialist (School Age) for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
Session Leadership: Plan and lead regular sessions each month that include a range of social and sports activities such as badminton, table tennis, board games, ball games, and outings.
Participant Engagement: Create an inclusive and welcoming environment where teenagers feel comfortable participating and expressing themselves.
Team Collaboration: Work closely with the multidisciplinary team of therapists, Early Intervention Teacher, Support Worker, and volunteers to ensure the smooth running of each session.
Safety and Wellbeing: Ensure all activities are conducted safely and that participants' wellbeing is a top priority.
Progress Monitoring: Observe and document participants' social interactions and personal development, providing feedback to the Centre Manager and Board of Directors.
Qualifications and Experience
Essential:
Level 8 Degree in Education, Special Education, or a related field such as social care/social work/youth work.
Minimum of 1 years’ experience working with teenagers, preferably in a group setting.
Strong organisational and leadership skills.
Ability to engage and motivate young people in a variety of activities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment.
This role is subject to Garda vetting (DSCNE will arrange)
The candidate must have complete and adequate liability coverage including professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
The candidate must be available after school hours and/or at weekends.
Desirable:
Minimum of 2 years’ experience working with individuals with additional needs, particularly those with Down syndrome.
Lámh training – if not held, a willingness to complete
First Aid certification.
Knowledge of safeguarding practices.
Why Join DSCNE?
Impactful Work: Contribute to programmes that makes a tangible difference in the lives of teenagers with Down syndrome and their families.
Supportive Environment: Be part of a dedicated team that values collaboration, professional growth, and mutual respect.
Community Focus: Work within a centre that is deeply embedded in the local community and committed to inclusive practices.
Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.
DSCNE is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.
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