Early Childhood Leaders & Educators (ECT, Educational Leader & Diploma)

Location: Kensington, Melbourne VIC

Work Type: Full time / Part-time

Step Into Leadership at a Brand-New, Purpose-Built Centre

St Mary's Children Centre is a not-for-profit early learning service operating under the auspices of St Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church in Kensington, Victoria. Housed in a brand-new, purpose-built, multi-storey facility, we provide high-quality, inclusive education and care for children aged 6 months to 6 years.

Our philosophy, curriculum, and daily practices are deeply rooted in Christian values according to the Coptic Orthodox tradition, demonstrating Christ's love, mercy, compassion, and empathy by valuing every child and partnering closely with families.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking experienced, highly independent, and competent early childhood professionals across three key roles: Educational Leader, Early Childhood Teacher (ECT), and Diploma-Qualified Educator. We are looking for confident self-starters who take initiative on the floor, inspire and lead teams of educators, design impactful play-based educational programs, and readily step up to support colleagues and the Centre Manager.

The Roles Available

1. Educational Leader

Working closely with the Centre Manager and ECTs, you will drive pedagogical excellence and continuous quality improvement across the entire service:

- Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of play-based educational programs aligned with the National Quality Framework (NQF), National Quality Standards (NQS), EYLF, and VEYLDF.

- Inspire, mentor, and supervise a team of educators, facilitating critical reflection and guiding Professional Development Plans.

- Oversee developmental documentation, observations, and individual learning assessments to ensure every child thrives.

- Partner with the Centre Manager and 2IC to lead the Quality Improvement Plan (QIP), policy reviews, and regulatory compliance, stepping up as a Nominated Supervisor when required.

2. Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)

Co-leading our funded Kindergarten and school-readiness program, you will blend intentional teaching with rich, child-led inquiry:

- Plan, deliver, and evaluate a compelling,



play-based preschool program grounded in the EYLF and VEYLDF that builds children's confidence, identity, and readiness for school.

- Lead room educators by example, mentoring staff in pedagogical documentation, individual learning plans, and Transition Learning and Development Statements.

- Build strong, collaborative relationships with families, local schools, and allied health professionals to support inclusive learning and additional needs.

- Work alongside the Educational Leader and Centre Manager to contribute to the QIP and elevate service-wide educational practice.

3. Diploma-Qualified Early Childhood Educator

As an experienced room leader and capable all-rounder, you will create stimulating learning environments and provide dependable operational support:

- Plan, implement, and evaluate engaging, play-based learning experiences and maintain comprehensive developmental portfolios for individual children and groups.

- Act as Responsible Person when required, confidently managing daily shift routines, supervising educator-to-child ratios, and stepping up to support the team and Centre Manager.

- Nurture children's holistic and spiritual wellbeing through warm, respectful interactions that honour each child's dignity and capabilities.

- Foster open, trusting relationships with families and collaborate with the ECTs and external specialists on school readiness and child development goals.

What You Bring to St Mary’s Children Centre

Qualifications & Experience

- Educational Leader: ACECQA-approved Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) or Diploma of Children's Services (or equivalent), proven experience leading and motivating staff, and eligibility to act as a Nominated Supervisor.

- Early Childhood Teacher (ECT): ACECQA-approved Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (or equivalent) and current Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) registration.

- Diploma Educator: ACECQA-approved Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care (or equivalent)



with solid experience working with children from birth to school age.

- All Roles: High autonomy with the confidence to work under minimal supervision, strong problem-solving and communication skills, thorough working knowledge of the NQF, EYLF/VEYLDF, and Child Safe Standards, and a genuine commitment to upholding St Mary's Children Centre’s Christian ethos and ethical values.

Mandatory Clearances (All Roles)

- Full Australian work rights.

- Current Employee Working with Children Check (WWCC) and National Police Clearance (or current VIT registration for ECT applicants).

- Current First Aid, CPR, Asthma, and Anaphylaxis certificates.

- Current Child Protection training and Food Handling / Food Safety certification.

Why Join St Mary's Children Centre?

- Brand-New Facility: Teach and lead in a modern, purpose-built, multi-storey early learning environment designed to inspire curiosity and play.

- Values-Driven Culture: Join a welcoming, not-for-profit community built on mutual respect, integrity, open communication, and genuine care for children, families, and educators.

- Professional Growth: Benefit from dedicated mentoring, collaborative leadership, and ongoing professional development opportunities tailored to your career goals.

- Career Progression & Leadership Pathways: Grow your career in an environment that actively invests in internal advancement, where there is ample opportunities to lead and innovate.

- Meaningful Recognition & Rewards: Feel genuinely valued in a supportive, strength-based workplace that celebrates your dedication, leadership, and achievements through regular appreciation, milestone recognition, and competitive Award-aligned conditions.

How to Apply

If you are an independent, capable early childhood professional ready to lead by example and make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you. Click Apply Now and submit your resume along with a cover letter specifying which role(s) you are applying for, your leadership experience, and how your approach aligns with the values of St Mary's Children Centre.

Interviews will be conducted as applications are received, and positions may be filled before the deadline.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

📌 Early Childhood Leaders & Educators (ECT, Educational Leader & Diploma) (Kensington)
🏢 St Mary's Children Centre
📍 Kensington