Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Angela O'Brien

Dublin,Dublin

Summary

  • Compassionate care management professional with substantial experience delivering safe, compliant child support. Led by example to achieve committed, empathetic service teams. Dedicated childcare services professional with extensive experience building positive, safe environments for children. Committed to enhancing social, emotional and educational development through programme planning. Compassionate and enthusiastic to engage children of varying ages and backgrounds.
  • Enthusiastic and eager to contribute to team success through hard work, attention to detail and excellent organizational skills. Motivated to learn, grow and excel in the childcare industry.
  • Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
  • Dedicated Afterschool Manager committed to safeguarding and promoting child welfare.
  • 8 years of experience leading and developing teams.
  • I feel I'm a very capable and efficient team leader as well as being a great team participant.
  • Everyday is a school day, we're never too old or experienced to learn from each other.

Overview

39
39
years of professional experience
9
9
years of post-secondary education

Work history

Afterschool Childcare Manager

The Elbowroom/The Manor Picture House
Dublin, Dublin 7
03.2021 - 12.2022
  • Developed and implemented a vibrant, engaging children's programme to meet the ongoing needs of children in our service ensuring a safe, secure, stimulating age and ability appropriate environment.
  • Ensure all health and Safety checks are carried out regularly
  • Ensure correct staff/children ratio is always in place to meet with health and safety regulations.
  • Ensure daily collection sheets for children are up to date.
  • Planned budgets to meet staffing and resource requirements within cost allocations.
  • Meet regularly with parents to discuss any needs or concerns they have whilst their child is attending our afterschool, these include behavioral, dietary, homework etc.
  • Devise a daily menu with our food suppliers
  • Register the service for the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) and ensure all requirements are met so our parents may avail of this service.
  • Ensure all invoices to parents, go out on time.
  • Revise, reconstruct and update all policies and procedures within the childcare setting.
  • Designated Liaison Person with Tusla.
  • Recruited enthusiastic staff to maintain positive care environments.
  • Ensure all staff have up to date certificates for first aid, health, safety and nutrition etc
  • Liaise with accounts department regarding wages/hours for staff, budgeting for daily food and resources.
  • Offered support and inclusion for all children, regardless of gender, cultural background or socioeconomic status, ensuring practices were implemented by staff.

Manager/Owner Sibling Aftercare, D7ET and Stanhope

Self Employed
Dublin, Dublin 7
09.2015 - 03.2020
  • Sibling aftercare was set up to provide childcare to children whose older siblings finished school later than themselves. The children are provided with age and ability related toys, books, arts activities etc. Children of all abilities are provided for and each child is treated as an individual with their individual needs being catered for.
  • Devise, develop and maintain all policies and procedures.
  • Research and secure external premises out with D7ET.
  • Deal with all business matters including child health and safety aspects, wages and tax payments, insurance etc.
  • Offered support and inclusion for all children, regardless of gender, cultural background or socioeconomic status,
  • In working with Catherine Smith, family liaison officer for Stanhope Primary, we obtained funding from S.V.D.P for some of our children who's family were experiencing financial difficulties.

Child Care Assistant

The Elbowroom
Dublin, Dublin 7
09.2012 - 09.2015
  • Devise, develop and maintain the ‘baby bouncing' area for babies aged between 4wks - 12mths.
  • Supervise volunteer carers.


Childcare Manager – After School Club

The Elbowroom
Dublin, Dublin 7
12.2014 - 06.2015
  • Interview and train staff in age appropriate play, positive behavior management, ABC observations etc.
  • Offer an afterschool facility to children of primary school age of all abilities, from junior infants to 6th class, to express themselves through play in a safe and stimulating environment
  • Deal with children's behavior issues in a sensitive manner using ABC observations (Antecedent, Behavior and consequence) and discuss with parents/guardians to ensure their child is receiving the best care for their individual needs.
  • Provide a calm and stimulating area for children to carry out their homework, with the support of staff in a relaxed environment.
  • Provide a healthy snack and nutritious meal.
  • Facilitate team meetings.

Project Leader

Rathmines Summer Project.
Dublin 6, Dublin
07.2012 - 07.2014
  • Project leaders and Project Co-Coordinators work on a voluntary basis.
  • The project operates to provide children with fun and safe activities during the summer holidays at minimal cost to parents/guardians.
  • Supervised children aged between 5 – 14 years, during on site activities in the youth club and as part of the team to facilitate off site activities for the children and young people attending, including swimming (with qualified swimming instructors), Tayto Park, Clara Lara, Fort Lucan, horse riding etc.

Childcare Worker, Toddler Group

The Elbowroom
Dublin, Dublin 7
03.2012 - 01.2013


  • This was set up to facilitate parents whose babies were becoming more mobile or who had a toddler and a young baby.
  • Guaranteed child safety, applying safeguarding procedures to prevent neglect and abuse.
  • Built parental trust by effectively answering questions regarding childcare guidelines.

Childminder

Margaret Corkery
Dublin, Dublin 7
07.2011 - 09.2012
  • Offered learning-through-play activities, stimulating physical, mental and social development to ensure all aspects of the child's needs are maintained in a safe and secure environment.
  • Maintained exceptional levels of cleanliness and hygiene to best protect children's health and safety.
  • Carried out meticulous risk assessments for continued child safety and highest adherence to current regulations.
  • Ensure the child receives a nutritious diet throughout the day.
  • Create a homely atmosphere in which the child's needs are met on every level.
  • Performed duties effectively, such as changing nappies, feeding bottles and introducing nap routines.
  • Communicated clearly and attentively to improve children's language and listening skills.

Childminder

Jess and Dave Andrews
Dublin, Dublin 7
06.2010 - 06.2011
  • As above.

Child Care Assistant

Elbow Room
Dublin, Dublin 7
06.2009 - 06.2010
  • Devise, develop and maintain the ‘baby bouncing' area for babies aged between 4wks - 12mths.
  • This space is set within the same area as parents are participating in their class but is partitioned off to create a baby friendly atmosphere.
  • Supervise volunteer carers.
  • Offered positive, nurturing environments to support babies social and emotional growth.

Childminder

Lisa Wilkinson, Cathy Coughlin
Dublin, Dublin 7
12.2004 - 06.2009
  • As above.

Childcare Assistant

Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Dublin 15, Dublin
07.2003 - 07.2004
  • Managed and administered medications and minor first aid treatments, prioritizing child safety and wellbeing.
  • Discussed behavioral issues with parents offering practical solutions for improved child development.
  • Communicated daily observations with guardians, maintaining detailed development records.
  • Offered tailored assistance to children with special needs, ensuring inclusive learning opportunities.
  • Supported children's development with learning-through-play activities, aiding social, emotional and educational growth.
  • Monitored interactions within group settings, encouraging sharing and cooperation to facilitate positive socialization.
  • Thoroughly cleaned and disinfected play areas to control health risks.
  • Helped children with personal hygiene needs and taught young children to independently complete care tasks.
  • Read stories and lead activities to help children build foundational learning skills.

Stage Technician

Event Services Ireland
Dublin, Dublin
01.2002 - 05.2003
  • To work as part of a team, taking initiative when required.
  • loading bands equipment on stage, setting it up and then taking down after performance.
  • Always ensuring health and safety as a priority.

Stage Manager

Black Box Theatre Co., Storytellers Theatre Co., T
Dublin, Dublin
05.1996 - 01.2003
  • Called actor, stage, lighting and sound cues with meticulous attention to timings, enabling smooth entrance and performance running.
  • Liaised between director, designers and crew, bringing to life creative vision for set, costume, sound and lighting.
  • Collaborated with set designer to ensure appropriate props and set equipment were installed and well maintained.
  • Ensured rehearsal spaces were accurately and appropriately measured and set, aiding smooth transitions to theatre spaces.
  • Oversaw the smooth running of each live show, working tirelessly to ensure exemplary quality standards throughout.
  • Scheduled and managed comprehensive rehearsal timetables, thoroughly preparing cast and crew ahead of live performances.
  • Attended production meetings to discuss new ideas and update participants on programme details and milestones.
  • Monitored production and mentored staff accordingly to improve team standards and overall company efficiency.
  • Maintained a clean and secure working environment at all times to ensure health and safety of team.

Assistant Stage Manager

Storytellers Theatre Co., The Passion Machine, Th
Dublin, Dublin
06.1995 - 01.2000
  • Coordinated paperwork for stage manager and production team.
  • Built, placed and moved sets to match specific scenes.
  • Helped actors and crew remain focused and attentive during shows.
  • Helped with actor, scene and prop blocking.
  • Enforced safety measures due to potential stage equipment hazards.
  • Collaborated with technical crew and cast to safeguard presentation of artistic vision.
  • Educated cast and crew members on evacuation scenarios for emergency situations during rehearsals and show operations.
  • Prepared rehearsal studio by gathering set furniture, props and costumes.
  • Alleviated issues between actors on set to keep projects on track and avoid delays or budget overages.

Costume Assistant

Storytellers Theatre Co., Sean McDevitt The Edina
Dublin and Edinburgh
01.1995 - 06.1998
  • Assisted the costume designer in sourcing and making period costumes
  • Steamed, altered and adjusted clothes on location.
  • Created accurate continuity notes on stage sets.
  • Stored costumes appropriately and returned hired items.
  • Developed and organized routine and special programming by factoring in slot timing, demographics and other important parameters.


Make-up Artist

The Machine
Dublin, Dublin
01.1996 - 01.1998
  • Used expert understanding of lighting and setting to ensure photo-perfect finish for all cast.
  • Clarified artistic vision and project direction with cast through clear and consistent communication.
  • Maintained impeccable standards of toolkit cleanliness for continued compliance with health and safety regulations.

Childminder

Dorothy Gunne and Eilish Moore
Dublin, Dublin
04.1994 - 12.1995
  • As above.

Dresser/Costume assistant

Kings Theatre and Edinburgh Festival
Edinburgh
01.1992 - 04.1994
  • Adjusted clothing, shoes, jewellery, headwear and other accessories once model was dressed, ensuing garments fit properly.
  • Collaborated with hair and makeup departments to align looks with specific image plans during production
  • Determined correct shoes, jewellery, headwear and other accessories to complement designer outfits.
  • Fitted cast with outfits according to designer specifications.
  • Tracked clothing and accessories used for photoshoots.
  • Kept gowns properly bustled and headpieces fitted correctly during shows.
  • Steamed and pressed garments prior to shows, ensuring perfection.

Bar Staff/Waitress

Waterfront Wine Bar, Leith
Edinburgh
01.1992 - 02.1993

  • Maintained bar, FOH and cloakroom areas to ensure clean, safe environment for staff and customers.
  • Warmly greeted daily customers to establish and maintain excellent first impressions.
  • Cleared, cleaned and restocked tables, reducing customer waiting times.
  • Processed cash and card payments accurately and efficiently.
  • Served beverages with efficiency and friendliness, ensuring guests satisfaction and offering advice on menu selections.
  • Thoroughly wiped down and disinfected tables, increasing consumer confidence in internal hygiene practices.
  • Served meals and drinks with professionalism and skill, maintaining high presentation and quality standards.

Senior Childcare Worker

The Leith Drugs Group
Edinburgh
10.1989 - 10.1992
  • The Leith Group was a day service for families affected by substance misuse, addiction and H.I.V/A.I.D.S.
  • The project employed a multi-disciplinary approach with individual on site social work, health care, 1 to 1 counseling and applied artistic and health promotion endeavors. These would include food and nutrition, exercise techniques, photography, massage, parenting skills etc.
  • This was one of the first, if not 'the' first, creche to be set up in a drugs group in Lothian.
  • I set up the crèche within The Leith Group ensuring all aspects of health and safety were covered and a stimulating, safe and secure environment was provided for the children attending,
  • The children were aged between 4 weeks to 8 years old.
  • Devised, developed and maintained policies and procedures in accordance with child protection and best work practice.
  • Carry out home visits addressing such issues as food and nutrition, behavior management and health and safety within the home and positive child care
  • Liaise with social services to do risk assessments on individual children.
  • Liaise with other support services within the Lothian's Region.
  • Attend conferences on H.I.V and A.I.D.S related topics and child protection issues.
  • Organize age appropriate outing for families ensuring the health and safety standards were met.
  • Apply for funding for my post and resources.
  • Supported children's development with learning-through-play activities, aiding social, emotional and educational growth.
  • Prepared nutritious meals and snacks, carefully adhering to individual dietary requirements and portioning standards.
  • Gave direct instructions to manage behavior, maintaining positive learning environments.
  • Managed and administered minor first aid treatments, prioritizing child safety and wellbeing.
  • Communicated daily observations with parents/guardians, maintaining detailed development records.
  • Observed children at play to monitor behavior and social interactions. Intervene in serious conflicts between, child - child, adult - child, adult - adult.
  • Upheld reliable routines to minimize children's stress and anxiety.
  • Read stories and lead activities to help children build foundational learning skills.

Bar Staff/Supervisor

Queens Hall, Edinburgh
Edinburgh
06.1987 - 08.1992
  • Work as part of a team in a very busy concert hall, ensuring smooth running of the bar including all health and hygiene of the bar area, stock shelves and fridges and tally tills at end of each shift.
  • Ensure staff and customers are treated respectfully. Engaged with guests to create positive rapport, encouraging loyalty and repeat visits.
  • Performed bar closing duties, thoroughly cleaning, sanitizing and replenishing stock.
  • Maintained bar stocks, replenishing daily as necessary.
  • Changed beer kegs safely and efficiently, consistently following health and hygiene guidelines.
  • Balanced tills with accurate cash and card payments, preparing bank deposits and POS reports.

Childminder

Sharon Hunter, Edinburgh
Edinburgh
02.1988 - 08.1989
  • To ensure the wellbeing of two boys aged 4 and 7, in their own home over night. This was done over 3 nights while their mother worked night shift and during the school holidays.
  • Both boys had special needs the 4 year old had A.D.H.D and the 7year old had recently been diagnosed with dyslexia. They were both grieving the recent death of their father.
  • Offered learning-through-play activities, stimulating physical, mental and social development.
  • Developed engaging, stimulating activity programmes, following parent guidelines to meet development goals.
  • Supervised children's play at home and in external settings, ensuring their physical safety at all times.
  • Communicated clearly and attentively to improve children's language and listening skills.

Administrator

R.S.McManus Builders, Edinburgh
Edinburgh
02.1984 - 07.1989
  • Carry out all office duties required by a small business including filing, contact with clients, wages, book keeping, ordering supplies and invoicing.

Education

Diploma in Stage Management and Production Studies - Entertainment

Inchicore Vocational School
Dublin
08.1994 - 06.1996

N.N.E.B Diploma in Childcare - Childcare

Stephenson College of Further Education, Edinburgh
Edinburgh
08.1987 - 07.1989

‘O' level in English and Biology. -

Stephenson College of Further Education, Edinburgh
08.1986 - 06.1987

C.S.E Biology, English, Maths. O level Drama, A -

St Thomas of Aquinas Secondary School, Edinburgh
08.1978 - 06.1982

Manuel Handling -

Guardian Safety
Dublin
03.2022 - 03.2022

First Aid Responder, Pre-Hospital Emergency Care -

Guardian Safety
02.2022 - 02.2022

Level 1 and 2 Food Safety Awareness -

Guardian Safety
Dublin
02.2022 - 02.2022

DSE Awareness Training -

Guardian Safety
Dublin
01.2022 - 01.2022

Introduction to Children First -

Tusla
Dublin
06.2021 - 06.2021

Updated First Aid Certificate -

First Aid for Everyone
Dublin
2019 - 2019

Child Protection Course -

Dublin City Council
Dublin
2015 - 2015

Updated First Aid Certificate -

The Elbowroom Training
Dublin
2015 - 2015

E.C.D.L Computer Course -

FAS
Dublin
2003 - 2003

Level 5 and 6 Special Needs Assistant -

Chevron Training
Ireland
05.2023 - 08.2023

Skills

  • Engaging leadership style
  • Family relations
  • Inclusive learning
  • Health and safety compliance
  • Child supervision
  • Behaviour management
  • Creative curriculum implementation
  • Staff training assessment
  • Parental involvement strategies
  • Child protection and safeguarding

Timeline

Level 5 and 6 Special Needs Assistant -

Chevron Training
05.2023 - 08.2023

Manuel Handling -

Guardian Safety
03.2022 - 03.2022

First Aid Responder, Pre-Hospital Emergency Care -

Guardian Safety
02.2022 - 02.2022

Level 1 and 2 Food Safety Awareness -

Guardian Safety
02.2022 - 02.2022

DSE Awareness Training -

Guardian Safety
01.2022 - 01.2022

Introduction to Children First -

Tusla
06.2021 - 06.2021

Afterschool Childcare Manager

The Elbowroom/The Manor Picture House
03.2021 - 12.2022

Manager/Owner Sibling Aftercare, D7ET and Stanhope

Self Employed
09.2015 - 03.2020

Childcare Manager – After School Club

The Elbowroom
12.2014 - 06.2015

Child Care Assistant

The Elbowroom
09.2012 - 09.2015

Project Leader

Rathmines Summer Project.
07.2012 - 07.2014

Childcare Worker, Toddler Group

The Elbowroom
03.2012 - 01.2013

Childminder

Margaret Corkery
07.2011 - 09.2012

Childminder

Jess and Dave Andrews
06.2010 - 06.2011

Child Care Assistant

Elbow Room
06.2009 - 06.2010

Childminder

Lisa Wilkinson, Cathy Coughlin
12.2004 - 06.2009

Childcare Assistant

Bright Horizons Family Solutions
07.2003 - 07.2004

Stage Technician

Event Services Ireland
01.2002 - 05.2003

Stage Manager

Black Box Theatre Co., Storytellers Theatre Co., T
05.1996 - 01.2003

Make-up Artist

The Machine
01.1996 - 01.1998

Assistant Stage Manager

Storytellers Theatre Co., The Passion Machine, Th
06.1995 - 01.2000

Costume Assistant

Storytellers Theatre Co., Sean McDevitt The Edina
01.1995 - 06.1998

Diploma in Stage Management and Production Studies - Entertainment

Inchicore Vocational School
08.1994 - 06.1996

Childminder

Dorothy Gunne and Eilish Moore
04.1994 - 12.1995

Dresser/Costume assistant

Kings Theatre and Edinburgh Festival
01.1992 - 04.1994

Bar Staff/Waitress

Waterfront Wine Bar, Leith
01.1992 - 02.1993

Senior Childcare Worker

The Leith Drugs Group
10.1989 - 10.1992

Childminder

Sharon Hunter, Edinburgh
02.1988 - 08.1989

N.N.E.B Diploma in Childcare - Childcare

Stephenson College of Further Education, Edinburgh
08.1987 - 07.1989

Bar Staff/Supervisor

Queens Hall, Edinburgh
06.1987 - 08.1992

‘O' level in English and Biology. -

Stephenson College of Further Education, Edinburgh
08.1986 - 06.1987

Administrator

R.S.McManus Builders, Edinburgh
02.1984 - 07.1989

C.S.E Biology, English, Maths. O level Drama, A -

St Thomas of Aquinas Secondary School, Edinburgh
08.1978 - 06.1982

Updated First Aid Certificate -

First Aid for Everyone
2019 - 2019

Child Protection Course -

Dublin City Council
2015 - 2015

Updated First Aid Certificate -

The Elbowroom Training
2015 - 2015

E.C.D.L Computer Course -

FAS
2003 - 2003
Angela O'Brien