
Duties of a Person in Charge of an Early Years Service
In the context of Early Years provision a PIC, or Person in Charge, plays a critical role in ensuring the well-being, safety, and quality of care provided to children in childcare settings. The duties of a Person in Charge may vary slightly depending on the specific type of childcare facility, such as a creche, preschool, or sessional service. However common duties include:
- Supervision and Management:
- Overseeing and managing day-to-day operations of the childcare facility.
- Providing leadership and guidance to staff members.
- Ensuring appropriate staff-to-child ratios are maintained.
2. Compliance with Regulations:
- Ensuring that the childcare facility complies with all relevant regulations and standards set forth by the relevant authorities, such as Tusla, the Child and Family Agency.
- Facilitating and Inspection from DES, Tusla Pobal, EHO for example.
3. Health and Safety:
- Implementing and maintaining health and safety policies and procedures to create a secure environment for children.
- Conducting regular risk assessments to identify and address potential hazards.
- Ensuring the roster is kept up to date and is a live representation of the staff levels in the building at all times.
4. Quality of Care:
- Monitoring and promoting the quality of care provided to children.
- Implementing age-appropriate and developmentally suitable activities and programs.
5. Staff Training and Development:
- Facilitating ongoing training and professional development for staff members.
- Ensuring that staff members have the necessary qualifications and certifications.
6. Communication with Parents/Guardians:
- Establishing and maintaining open and effective communication with parents or guardians.
- Keeping parents informed about their child's well-being, development, and any incidents that may occur during childcare hours.
7. Record-Keeping:
- Maintaining accurate records, including attendance records, incident reports, and child development observations.
- Keeping records up-to-date and ensuring they are securely stored.
8. Child Protection:
- Implementing and adhering to child protection policies and procedures
- Reporting any concerns about the welfare of a child to the appropriate authorities.
9. Emergency Procedures:
- Ensuring that staff members are trained in emergency procedures, including evacuation plans and first aid.
- Conducting regular emergency drills.
10. Continuous Improvement:
- Identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes to enhance the quality of care.
- Seeking feedback from parents, staff, and other stakeholders.
The duties of a Person in Charge are critical in maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for children in Early Years settings. It involves a combination of leadership, regulatory compliance, and a commitment to the well-being and development of the children under their care.
Check out our Contracts, Job descriptions and Staff Handbook template packs!
https://earlyyearsshop.ie/product/job-description-pack/
Check out our Contracts, Job descriptions and Staff Handbook template packs!
https://earlyyearsshop.ie/product/job-description-pack/
https://earlyyearsshop.ie/product/employment-contract-template/
https://www.canavanbyrne.ie/hr/category/staff-handbook
https://www.canavanbyrne.ie/hr/category/staff-handbook
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