Nurturing Your Career, While You Nurture Their Next Step

At Bright Steps Academy, a career in early learning is about more than a job. It is about the relationships you build, the little moments you notice, the confidence you help grow and the difference you make in a child’s day.

We are building teams of caring, curious and committed people who want to make a meaningful difference. You’ll be supported to grow, encouraged to share ideas and surrounded by people who genuinely care about children, families and each other.

At Bright Steps Academy, we differentiate ourselves by creating a work environment that provides all educators with ongoing on-the-job training and access to professional development opportunities.

The best teams bring out the best in each other. Join people who care about children, families and their teammates, with a culture built on respect, collaboration and genuine support.

Whether you are beginning your early learning career or ready for your next leadership opportunity, we will support your learning, build your confidence and help you take your next step.

The little moments matter. Help a child feel safe at drop-off, celebrate a milestone, notice what they need and build the relationships families remember.

Quality learning environments, thoughtful resources, career development and practical support give you the foundations to create meaningful experiences for children.

Great early learning comes from curious educators. We want people who think creatively, contribute ideas, share what they know and look for ways to make things better.

Your contribution matters. We support our people through recognition, wellbeing initiatives, meaningful benefits and opportunities to learn and grow.

Qualifications matter – but so does who you are when you walk into the room. We are looking for people who care about the little things, build genuine relationships and take pride in creating safe, welcoming places for children and families.

- You get down to a child’s level and really listen.
- You notice when a child, family member or teammate is not quite themselves.
- You understand that a difficult drop-off matters to both the child and their family.
- You take time to learn children’s interests, personalities and routines.
- You communicate openly and respectfully with families.
- You support your teammates and contribute to a positive centre culture.
- You bring ideas, energy and curiosity.
- You champion child safety and wellbeing.
- You want to keep learning and growing.

This is the difference you can make.

Our families consistently tell us that the people in our centres make the biggest difference.

- Helping children feel safe, included and supported
- Supporting children’s emotions and individual needs
- Making difficult drop-offs a little easier
- Building strong relationships with children and families
- Going above and beyond in the everyday moments
- Helping families feel welcome and supported
- Getting to know children and families as individuals
- Helping children grow,



thrive and develop with confidence

Your Career CanGrow Here

Your next step does not have to mean leaving Bright Steps. We want our people to keep learning, building confidence and progressing into new opportunities across our centres and support teams.

- Career progression opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program
- Funded First Aid, CPR & Child Protection training

Child safety starts with all of us

Every person at Bright Steps Academy has a responsibility to help create a safe, respectful and child-focused environment. We expect our people to take child safety seriously, speak up when something does not feel right and make decisions with children’s safety and wellbeing at the centre. If you join our team, this becomes part of your everyday role. It shapes how you work with children, how you support your colleagues and how you communicate with families.

Our recruitment process reflects that commitment. All applicants undergo Working with Children Checks, reference checks and interviews that explore your values and understanding of child safety. Once you are with us, ongoing training and supervision means you will always know how to recognise concerns and act on them. Raising a concern is never an inconvenience here. It is exactly what we ask of you.

Our Core Values

At Bright Steps Academy, our motto: “BRIGHT” is at the heart of everything we do.

Belonging

We are an inclusive and welcoming early learning community that feels like home. Everyone belongs at Bright Steps Academy.

Respect

We foster respectful relationships with children, families, and each other through open communication and genuine care.

Individuality

We value and nurture each child’s talents, interests, and unique identity through our caring, individual approach to learning.

Growth

We actively encourage children to learn and grow by providing them with the best environments, resources, and support.

Happiness

We provide children with exciting, joyful, and memorable learning experiences that truly fuel happy childhood memories.

Teamwork

We are passionate professionals who work together as a team to deliver excellence in all aspects of early education and care.

Current Job Listings

Chef / Cook | Chelsea

- Education & Child Care
- Chelsea (VIC)
- Permanent / Full Time

21/9/2026

- 50% off childcare
- Additional leave - birthday and wellbeing

Location:Chelsea, VIC
Position Type:Full Time / Permanent
Salary:Above Award + Benefits
About Bright Steps Academy
At Bright Steps Academy, community is at the heart of everything we do. Our centres provide nurturing, engaging environments for children aged 0 to 6 years,



where curiosity, creativity, and confidence are celebrated. We believe healthy bodies support healthy minds. Our fresh, nutritious meals play an important role in children’s wellbeing, development, and daily learning experiences.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Centre Chef / Cook to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a new centre from the beginning — creating nutritious, balanced meals and building positive food experiences for young children.
About the Role
As our Centre Chef / Cook, you will:

- Plan and prepare nutritious, balanced meals and snacks in line with Australian Dietary Guidelines
- Cater for allergies, intolerances, and cultural dietary requirements
- Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, and kitchen cleanliness
- Manage food ordering, budgeting, and stock control
- Engage positively with children to promote healthy eating habits
- Ensure compliance with food safety and health regulations

What You'll Bring

- Relevant commercial cookery qualification (or experience in a similar role)
- Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
- Experience preparing meals for children (desirable)
- Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene practices
- Excellent organisational and time management skills
- A warm, positive, and team-oriented attitude

Why Join Bright Steps Academy
At Bright Steps Academy, we invest in our people and value every team member's contribution to our centre community.
We Offer

- 50% off childcare gap fees for your children or grandchildren
- Additional leave - your birthday and one wellbeing day each year
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Supportive, inclusive, and values-driven culture
- 15% Approved Workers Retention Grant

Child Safety
Bright Steps Academy is committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for child abuse. All roles require a valid Working with Children Check and reference checks.

“ I like working at Bright Steps Academy because it’s a welcoming and supportive environment – not just for me but for the children. ”

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“ Ebony BSA Educator “ My room is amazing and are lovely to work in! The environments are very child-led – the rooms are amazing. ”

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“ I love the centre as a whole – it’s really clean, bright, and spacious, and the outdoor yards are really nice. ”

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“ Bright Steps Academy provides great support for wellbeing and creates a positive work environment. ”

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“ I like working at Bright Steps Academy because there are so many opportunities for personal growth. ”

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“ I really enjoy working here – I love the kids and the families, they’re awesome. ”

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“ Makaylah BSA Educator “ I love working at Bright Steps for the people I work with and the children too – everyone is amazing here. ”

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“ I love working at Bright Steps; the atmosphere is amazing, and the team is great. ”

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📌 Chef / Cook | Chelsea (Melbourne)
🏢 Bright Steps Academy
📍 Melbourne