PRICE GUIDE · CHILDCARE & FAMILY

Nursery Assistant cost in Ireland
€13–€20 per hour. Typically €16.

A nursery assistant in Ireland costs €13–€20 per hour, typically around €16. The price is set by qualification level, hours and setting and number of children.

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HOW MUCH IT COSTS

How much does a nursery assistant cost in Ireland?

NURSERY ASSISTANT PRICE · PER HOUR · IRELAND
Low end€13a simple job, off-peak, outside the cities
Typical€16what most people pay
High end€20the biggest jobs, short notice, Dublin
Typical €16
€13 low€20 high

Locufy guide prices for 2026–2027. Updated 2026. A national range, not a quote — enter your town above for real prices from the babysitters, childminders, nannies, crèches and agencies near you.

What moves the price

  • Specific duties required — adding meal and snack preparation or educational activities means more hours each week.
  • Number of children — a nursery assistant minding a larger group takes on more work, which can lift the rate per hour.
  • Their specific needs — children who need extra support call for a nursery assistant with more training, at a higher rate.
  • Complexity of care required — babies and toddlers need closer care, so a nursery assistant for the youngest children charges more.
−35%PRICE TREND · 5 YEARS

What families pay for Childcare is down 35% over five years, largely because of subsidies (CSO Consumer Price Index, Childcare, to 2025 December); what providers charge has not fallen in the same way. CSO CPM18

WHAT YOU GET

What a nursery assistant visit includes

Child SupervisionNursery assistants are responsible for supervising children during playtime and activities.
Educational ActivitiesThey often plan and implement educational activities that promote learning and development.
Meal and Snack PreparationNursery assistants may assist in preparing and serving meals or snacks to children.
Communication with ParentsThey frequently communicate with parents about their child's progress and any concerns that may arise.

Takes: The duration of a nursery assistant job can vary widely, from a few hours for specific events to ongoing part-time or full-time positions..

WHAT PEOPLE BOOK

Common nursery assistant jobs

Childcare ProviderResponsible for overseeing children's daily activities, ensuring their safety, and supporting their developmental needs.
Educational AssistantHelps implement learning activities and curriculum tailored to young children's developmental stages.
Playgroup LeaderOrganises and leads play sessions that encourage social interaction and skill development among children.
Special Needs AssistantProvides dedicated support to children with additional needs, ensuring they receive appropriate care and education.
Home Nursery AssistantOffers childcare in a home setting, providing a nurturing environment and personal attention to children.
After-School Care AssistantSupervises and engages children after school hours, providing homework help and recreational activities.

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Nursery Assistant near you, with prices shown

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How to pay less

  • For general supervision, a nursery assistant with an entry-level qualification costs less per hour than one with higher qualifications.
  • Booking a nursery assistant only for the busiest part of the day, rather than a full day, cuts the hours booked.
  • Sharing a home nursery assistant with another family splits the cost per hour between both households.
  • A regular weekly booking with the same nursery assistant may cost less per hour than occasional cover.
  • Leaving out meal preparation and extra tasks keeps the nursery assistant's hours to child supervision, which keeps the total down.

Before you book

  • A safe and clean space for the nursery assistant to work in.
  • Details about any specific needs or routines of your children.
  • Access to necessary materials for play and learning, such as toys and educational resources.
  • Contact information for emergencies and any medical information the nursery assistant should have.

Nursery Assistant cost: questions people ask

The cost can be influenced by the assistant's experience, qualifications, and the specific duties required. Additionally, geographical location and demand for childcare services in your area can also affect pricing.

The duration of a nursery assistant job can vary widely, from a few hours for specific events to ongoing part-time or full-time positions. For short-term needs, you might hire an assistant for a few hours a day or week.

While a general nursery assistant can handle basic childcare tasks, hiring a qualified professional may be necessary for more specialised activities or if specific educational outcomes are desired. Check local regulations regarding qualifications.

Availability for same-day bookings can be limited, especially during peak times. It's best to plan ahead, but some agencies or freelancers may offer emergency services if they have capacity.

Yes, many nursery assistants can offer additional services such as tutoring or event planning. Booking multiple services can sometimes lead to discounts or more comprehensive care for your children.

Nursery assistants generally do not provide medical care, specialised educational instruction, or psychological support. Their role is primarily focused on supervision, basic education, and care.