Job Description
n
Lead the philosophy. Shape the practice. Follow the child.
n
AtLittle Lane Doncaster, we are looking for an experienced and deeply passionate
EducationalLeader
to lead the pedagogical direction of our centre and champion authentic Montessori practice.
n
This is an opportunity for an educator who understands that Montessori is not simply a methodology, a collection of beautiful materials or a set of activities.
n
It is a philosophy. A way of seeing the child. A way of preparing the environment. And a way of being as an educator.
n
We are looking for someone who can protect that philosophy while inspiring a team to live it every day.
About the Opportunity n
As our
EducationalLeader
, you will be the pedagogical heart of the centre — supporting educators to understand why we do what we do, not simply what we do.
n
You will work alongside the team to create an environment where children are given the time, freedom and opportunity to develop independence, concentration, confidence and a genuine love of learning.
n
You will help build a culture where educators are
observers before interveners, guides rather than directors, and facilitators rather than the centre of the child's experience.
n
This is a hands‐on leadership role for someone who wants to be present in the environments, alongside educators and close to the children.
n
You will be responsible for:
n
n
Leading the implementation and protection of
authentic Montessori philosophy and practiceacross the centre.
n
Mentoring educators to develop a deep understanding of the Montessori approach and the role of the adult.
n
Supporting educators to become skilled and intentional observers of children.
n
Guiding the preparation of purposeful, orderly and beautiful learning environments.
n
Ensuring Montessori materials are presented with intention, accuracy and respect for their purpose.
n
Supporting educators to understand the importance of
freedom within limits, independence, concentration, repetition and choice
.
n
Encouraging educators to follow the individual child rather than expecting every child to follow the same path.
n
Protecting uninterrupted work cycles and children's opportunities for deep concentration.
n
Supporting educators to reflect on when to intervene, when to observe and when to step back.
n




Building a culture of professional inquiry, where educators continually question and refine their practice.
n
Working closely with the Centre Director and leadership team to strengthen curriculum, pedagogy and outcomes.
n
Supporting documentation and planning to remain meaningful, purposeful and connected to the child.
n
Ensuring Montessori practice is thoughtfully aligned with the
Early Years Learning Framework, National Quality Framework and Child Safe Standards.
n
Building strong relationships with families and helping them understand and connect with the Montessori philosophy.
n
About You n
You are not simply an educator who has worked in a Montessori environment.
n
You understand that a carefully prepared environment can do more for a child than constant adult instruction.
n
You understand that a child asking to do something independently should be met with patience, even when it takes longer.
n
You understand that observation comes before assumption.
n
And you understand that sometimes the most powerful thing an educator can do is step back and allow the child to discover what they are capable of.
n
You will ideally have:
n
n
A Diploma or Bachelor qualification in Early Childhood Education and Care.
n
Recognised Montessori training
and solid practical Montessori experience.
n
Previous experience as an
EducationalLeader
, Montessori Lead Educator, PedagogicalLeader or comparable leadership role.
n
A deep understanding of Montessori philosophy and pedagogy.
n
Strong knowledge of child development and contemporary early childhood practice.
n
The ability to mentor, inspire and challenge educators respectfully.
n
A reflective and thoughtful approach to leadership.
n
Strong knowledge of the EYLF, NQF, National Regulations and Child Safe Standards.
n
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
n
A genuine belief in children's capability, agency and right to be respected.
n




The ability to translate Montessori philosophy into everyday practice —
not just into words or documentation.
n
TheLeaderWe Are Looking For n
We are looking for someone who can walk into an environment and notice what others might miss.
n
A child who has been concentrating for twenty minutes and doesn't need an adult interruption.
n
A material that is no longer inviting the way it should.
n
An educator who is doing something for a child that the child is ready to do independently.
n
A room that could be calmer.
n
A child who is communicating through their behaviour.
n
An educator who has an idea but needs the confidence to pursue it.
n
You will see these moments — and know what to do with them.
n
You will lead through observation, conversation, modelling and reflection.
n
You won't simply tell educators what to change.
n
You will help them see differently.
Why Little Lane? n
At Little Lane, we believe the quality of a child's experience is deeply connected to the quality of the adult around them.
n
That means investing in educators who are curious, reflective and committed to becoming better practitioners.
n
You will have the opportunity to:
n
n
Lead Montessori pedagogy across the centre.
n
Influence the culture and professional practice of the team.
n
Mentor educators and develop future Montessori leaders.
n
Create environments where children can experience genuine independence and belonging.
n
Work within a leadership team that values thoughtful, intentional practice.
n
Contribute to continuous improvement and pedagogical innovation.
n
Continue your own professional and Montessori development.
n
This is more than an Educational Leader position. n
It is an opportunity to protect a philosophy, influence a team and shape the experience of childhood.
n
If you believe the environment matters.
n
If you believe observation is more powerful than assumption.
n
If you believe independence should be earned through opportunity, not simply encouraged through words.
n
And if you believe Montessori is something we live, not something we label —
n
we would love to meet you.
Little Lane Doncaster Prepare the environment. Trust the child. Develop the adult. n
#J-*****-Ljbffr

📌 Educational Leader New (Melbourne)
🏢 Little Lane Montessori Children's House (Doncaster)
📍 Melbourne