Job Title: Full Time Centre Director - Kew

Salary field: Approx $100,000 (dependent on experience) + Super

Job Summary:

Tradewind Australia is recruiting for a Centre Director for an "Exceeding" Early Learning Centre, based in Kew, Melbourne to start in July 2025.

• Permanent, Ongoing Position across Monday - Friday
• Interview tips and preparation provided
• Work with a dedicated consultant who will walk you through the application process
• ASAP Start

About the Role:

Tradewind Australia | Early Learning Centre Director| Kew, Melbourne

Lead with Purpose at an Exceeding-Rated Early Learning Centre in Kew

Tradewind Australia is seeking a passionate and experienced Early Childhood Leader to join a high-quality, 101-place Early Learning Centre in Kew, Melbourne. This is a permanent, full-time opportunity to step into a key leadership role.

Rated Exceeding, the centre features state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor learning environments designed to engage and inspire children from 6 weeks to school age. You'll lead and collaborate with a dynamic team of educators, working closely with the off-floor Assistant Director to manage rotating open and close shifts. You will also work alongside the Educational Leader and Curriculum Leader to continue driving a rich, engaging curriculum and maintain the centre's high standards of practice.

We're looking for an experienced Centre Director ready for a new challenge, or an exceptional Assistant Director or 2IC ready to take the next step in their career.

Conveniently located near public transport, the centre also offers onsite staff parking.

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact in a nurturing, community-focused environment, we would love to hear from you.

Key duties:

• Provide leadership, guidance and support to educators and staff, fostering a collaborative and positive team culture
• Ensure compliance with the National Quality Framework (NQF), National Quality Standards (NQS), Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), and Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF)
• Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of high-quality educational programs that support each child's learning and wellbeing
• Build strong, respectful relationships with children, families, staff, and the broader community
• Manage centre operations including enrolments, staffing, rostering, budgets, and resource allocation
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement processes, quality assurance, and centre self-assessment
• Monitor and ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and centre policies (including Child Safe Standards and Occupational Health & Safety requirements)
• Facilitate ongoing professional development and performance appraisals for staff
• Act as the primary liaison for families, addressing queries, concerns, and supporting family engagement in the centre community
• Represent the centre in regulatory assessments, audits, and external reviews
• Promote and uphold the centre's philosophy, vision, and values in all aspects of centre operations

Required Qualifications & Attributes

• Diploma, Graduate Diploma, or Degree in Early Childhood Education (ACECQA approved)
• In-depth knowledge of the EYLF and National Quality Standards (NQS)
• Strong understanding of compliance, regulations, and Child Safe Standards applicable to Victorian early childhood services
• High level of written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer and documentation skills
• Current Working with Children Check or VIT
• Approved First Aid Certificate including Asthma, CPR and Anaphylaxis training
• Current legal working rights in Australia

Skills & Experience:

• Proven leadership experience working in an Australian-based Early Learning setting as a Director, 2ic or Assistant Director
• Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and inspire a diverse team of educators and support staff
• Excellent organisational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong financial and operational management capabilities, including budgeting, staffing, and resource allocation
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills to build strong relationships with children, families, staff, and external stakeholders
• Commitment to continuous improvement, reflective practice, and ongoing professional development
• Ability to build meaningful relationships with children, colleagues, and families

Why work with Tradewind?

Tradewind Australia is a specialist, education recruitment agency and is the preferred supplier of Educators for many schools and Early Learning Centres across Australia. We have a strong reputation of providing high calibre Educators with fantastic contract and casual opportunities and helping to pursue a rewarding career. Our aim is to cultivate an excellent ongoing relationship with you throughout your growing career.

How to apply:

To apply, follow the link provided or apply on our website
Alternatively, email your resume to [email protected]
For any queries regarding the position or application process, contact the Early Years Team on 03 9110 0090

Commitment to Child Safety and Equal Opportunity

Tradewind Australia is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children. Our Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct ensure a safe environment for all children, including those with a disability, from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

All applicants will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including a Working with Children Check, and identity verification. We encourage candidates to highlight any experience working with diverse children and communities.

TRADEWIND AUSTRALIA IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER.
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, and those with lived experience.