Background
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933, the IRC offers lifesaving care and life-changing assistance to refugees forced to flee from war or disaster. At work today in over 40 countries, the IRC aims to restore safety, dignity and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure. In response to the increased refugee arrivals into Europe, the IRC established the program initially in Greece, which was expanded with programs in Serbia and wider Balkans and with programs in Germany.
In Italy, the IRC provides essential protection, education, livelihood, and health services to refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers. Our programs operate across the country, including Milan, Rome, Turin, Trieste, Sicily, and Calabria, with a strong focus on supporting women and children.
In Milan, the IRC implements targeted initiatives for young children with a migratory background and their caregivers, promoting early childhood development through Italian language acquisition and socio-emotional learning. By strengthening the caregiver–child relationship, these programs support well-being, learning, and integration into the local education system.
Summary of the assignment
The IRC is currently seeking a qualified external consultant to support the implementation of the FAMI “Italiano Secondo Me” – PROG-542, funded under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF) 2021–2027.
The selected consultant will support the design and delivery of seven experiential learning pathways for children aged 2–6 with a migratory background. The sessions will strengthen children’s Italian language skills while actively engaging caregivers in understanding and navigating the Italian education system. The approach will incorporate the concept of “language of care” (linguaggio della cura), emphasizing caregiver–child interaction as a key driver of language development, learning, and overall well-being.
Specific objectives of the assignment
- Co-develop session plans, tools, and activity guidelines tailored to different developmental stages.
- Ensure content is inclusive, culturally sensitive, and accessible to families with diverse linguistic backgrounds.
- Facilitate and/or oversee the delivery of seven experiential learning pathways (20 hours each) – 5 will take place between June and August, 2 will take place between September and December.
- Track progress against objectives, including children’s participation and caregiver engagement.
- Collect qualitative feedback and document good practices, challenges, and lessons learned.
- Liaise with local partners, informal education services, and early childhood centers to co-design and plan activities.
- Participate in coordination meetings with IRC staff and stakeholders.
- Align activities with local services and referral pathways where relevant.
Deliverables
- Adapted curriculum and session plans for 7 learning pathways
- Implementation of 7 pathways (20 hours each)
- Monitoring tools and data collection outputs
- Interim progress updates (as agreed with IRC)
- Final report including outcomes, challenges, lessons learned, and recommendations
Competencies and skills
- Academic background in education, psychology, social work, pedagogy, or a related field.
- Some professional or field experience (e.g. internships, short-term roles, project collaboration) in early childhood development (0–6), education, or work with children and families.
- Deep understanding of language acquisition processes, particularly in multilingual or migration contexts.
- Familiarity with participatory, play-based, and child-centered learning approaches.
- Ability to engage both young children and caregivers in structured and informal learning settings.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with culturally diverse groups.
- Good organizational skills and ability to plan and facilitate structured sessions.
- Fluency in Italian; knowledge of additional languages relevant to migrant communities is considered an asset.
Budget:
The total budget available for this consultancy assignment shall not exceed EUR 7875 inclusive of all fees and applicable taxes.
How to apply
Visit IRC Career Site: https://theirc.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/External_Careers/job/Milan-Italy/Early-Childhood-Language-Learning-Facilitator_JR00003209