Joy Early Learning

exists for families who believe childhood should be joyful, curiosity-led, and packed with play.

Our centres are built for movement, discovery, and connection, with nature-rich play spaces, engaging educators, and a sense of belonging you can feel from the moment you step inside. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all early learning. We believe in real moments, big wonder, and learning that happens naturally. Because when children feel happy, safe, and free to explore, the best kind of learning just happens.

Our first centre opened in 2025 in Ripley, followed by our Aura and Moffat centre in 2026. We also have two more centres set to open in 2026 across Terranora and Yandina.

About the role At Joy Early Learning, we believe great outcomes for children start with educators and teachers who feel respected, supported and genuinely cared for. We don’t just talk about wellbeing and flexibility — we build it into how we operate every day.

We’re growing and looking for passionate

Educational leader

who want more than “just a job” — they want fair pay, balance, development and a workplace that actually walks the talk.

This is a five-day-per-week, dedicated non-contact leadership role, providing the time, space and support to lead educational excellence, mentor and empower educators, drive positive change and bring Joy Early Learning’s vision and values to life.

You’ll be a visible, hands‑on leader who isn't afraid to get involved, ask questions, share ideas and lead by example.

As part of the Joy Early Learning team, you will:

Provide strong educational leadership and direction, creating a shared vision for high‑quality early childhood education and care.





Extensive knowledge and leadership skills in all areas of operation.

Work alongside educators to build confidence, strengthen capabilities and support their professional growth through coaching, mentoring and reflective practice.

Create an environment where educators feel confident to share ideas, explore new approaches and bring their passion and personality into their work.

Work closely with the Centre Manager and wider team to create a consistent, supportive and inspiring learning setting.

Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and quality standards

Be supported — not stretched — to do your best work, bringing JOY and purpose to everything you do.

About you We’re looking for candidates who have relevant qualifications for the role:

A genuine love for early childhood education

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood), Diploma of ECEC, or ACECQA‑approved equivalent qualification

Previous experience working as an Educational Leader in an early childhood education and care setting (essential).

A proactive, forward‑thinking approach and the confidence to take initiative.

Current Blue Card

A team‑first mindset and warm, professional approach

Available to work five days per week

Why Joy?

Above‑award base pay with clear pay bands





Paid overtime or TIL — your time matters

Paid CPR & First Aid + uniforms provided

Loyalty bonuses that genuinely add up

1 year - $250

3 year - $500

5 year - $750

7 & 10 year - $1000

Refer‑a‑friend bonus — $250 voucher when your referral passes probation

Lunch is on us

Joy Time & Flexibility: Real Work‑Life Balance

Fixed shifts with rosters set fortnightly in advance

Extra paid programming time off the floor – 3 hours per week (not the standard 2)

Joy Career Pathways: Grow Without Leaving

Study leave + paid placements

Secondments across Joy centres (Sunshine Coast

Tweed Coast) to have fresh experiences without starting over somewhere new

Joy Wellbeing: Because Educators and Teachers Are Human

Centre support teams — consistent extra hands in rooms

Free, confidential EAP counselling

Joy Family First: We Get It

75% discounted childcare for staff children

Priority placement at Joy centres

Return‑to‑work transition plans (reduced days to start)

Joy Perks: The Fun Stuff Matters Too

Paid birthday leave

Centre‑level budgets for quarterly team catch‑ups, socials and joy‑filled moments beyond the classroom

At Joy, you’ll find:

A supportive organisation that values innovation and excellence in early childhood education

A beautifully designed centre where play takes centre stage

Modern, thoughtfully designed learning spaces and resources to support your teaching

Opportunities to make a truly positive impact in a dynamic and welcoming community

Opportunities for professional growth and development

📌 Educational Leader (Ripley)
🏢 Joy Early Learning
📍 Ripley