As of September 2022, pay rates for childcare workers increased. Early Years Educators and SAC Practitioners hourly rate of pay varies by age, experience, and position. The rate of pay for Early Years Educators and SAC Practitioners is €13.00 per hour and €14.00 per hour for Early Years Lead Educators.
The following rate of salary is in relation to Early Years Educators and School Age Childcare (SAC) Practitioners.
The purpose of Early Years Educator is to provide support in full time day care. To be a member of the daycare team and to lead, watch over, encourage, and monitor kids in a secure and nurturing setting. He/she works in partnership with the early years team, families, and professions throughout the role.
| Age | Hourly rate of pay |
| Under 18 | €9.10 |
| 18 years old | €10.40 |
| 19 years old | €11.70 |
| 20 years old | €13.00 |
Lead Educators and School Age Childcare Coordinators
The purpose of the lead educator’s role is to schedule and deliver educational programs supported with the current curriculum. Room Leaders supervise the operations of a specific room in a nursery or similar setting catering to children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), including baby, toddler, or preschool rooms. Their primary responsibilities include maintaining high standards of teaching and learning to stimulate children’s development, supporting, and supervising staff, sharing professional knowledge, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Room Leaders also prioritize building positive relationships with both staff and families to facilitate open communication and effective partnerships for smooth operation and high-quality care.
The rate of pay is €14.00 per hour.
| Age | Hourly rate of pay |
| Under 18 | €9.80 |
| 18 years old | €11.20 |
| 19 years old | €12.60 |
| 20 years old | €14.00 |
The rate of pay increases with further progression in Early Learning and Childcare, however further training to Childcare Level 7 is required.