We are a family owned centre looking for an experienced early childhood leader who is passionate about quality education, inspiring learning environments, and building a centre culture where children, families and educators thrive.

First Years Early Learning is seeking an exceptional Centre Director / Centre Manager to lead our truly family owned service. In this role you will report directly to the owner who use to be educator herself and has children at the centre. Being a family-owned and operated centre, we are not a large corporate group there is no management company or area managers. We value relationships, genuine support, and a hands-on approach to leadership. This is an opportunity for the right person to shape the culture, guide the team, and help establish a centre known for warmth, professionalism and high-quality practice.

This is a rare opportunity to take on a leadership role in a boutique, family-owned centre. Licensed for 70 children, our service has been thoughtfully designed to create a calm, inspiring and high-quality environment where children can learn through play, exploration and meaningful relationships.

What we offer

- Excellent above-award salary package with an annual bonus

- Opportunity to lead a team which operators above minimum ratios

- Supportive owners and management who are approachable and hands-on

- Unlimited room budgets

- Flexible and collaborative working environment

- Paid professional development and ongoing training

- Discounts on childcare

- Embedded 2IC who can support your annual leave

- Blue Card and First Aid costs covered





- A authentic boutique setting with strong investment in resources and presentation

- The opportunity to build and lead a team with a shared commitment to quality education and care

- A centre philosophy that values children, relationships, play, and natural environments

About the role

As Centre Director / Centre Manager, you will:

- Lead the day-to-day operations of the centre as it opens and grows

- Build a positive, professional and values-driven team culture

- Mentor and support educators along side and Educational Leader and Educational Mentor to deliver high-quality, play-based learning experiences

- Oversee compliance with the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations, National Quality Framework, and centre policies

- Foster strong and respectful relationships with children, families, educators and the local community

- Guide curriculum with a strong focus on quality education through play and natural environments

- Support the development of engaging indoor and outdoor learning programs

- Lead reflective practice and continuous improvement across the service

- Manage enrolments, staffing, rosters, administration and centre operations

- Help establish First Years Early Learning as a centre known for excellence, warmth and genuine care

About you





To be successful in this role, you will bring:

- Proven experience in a Centre Director, Centre Manager, Assistant Director or similar early childhood leadership role

- Solid knowledge of the National Quality Framework, National Law and Regulations

- A genuine passion for high-quality early childhood education and care

- A strong understanding of play-based learning, child development and the value of natural environments in children’s learning

- The ability to inspire, mentor and lead a team with confidence and warmth

- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

- A calm, organised and solutions-focused approach

- Relevant early childhood qualifications

- Current Blue Card

- Current First Aid, CPR, Asthma and Anaphylaxis qualifications, or willingness to obtain/update

Why join First Years Early Learning?

This is more than a management role. It is an opportunity to lead a centre with a clear vision, supported by owners who truly believe in quality: a place where children experience meaningful play, beautiful natural environments, nurturing relationships and high-quality education from the very beginning.

If you are a leader who believes children learn best through play, exploration and connection with the natural world, we would love to hear from you.

For more information about our centre and working with us, visit https://www.firstyearsearlylearning.com/jobs.

All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Please apply via SEEK with your resume and cover letter.

📌 Childcare Manager/Director (Gold Coast)
🏢 First Years Early Learning
📍 Gold Coast