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:

  1. 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/

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