What is the Centre Director's role?

Inspirational Leadership, Lasting Impact

The Centre Director is the heart of the service—the visionary leader who inspires a shared commitment to excellence in early childhood education and care. With a deep understanding of children, families, and the power of nurturing environments, the Director sets the tone for a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

As an inspirational and motivating leader, the Director leads with purpose and passion. They guide the service with clarity and compassion, bringing out the best in educators and creating an environment where professionalism, curiosity, and joy in learning flourish. Their leadership ensures that every child is seen as capable, every educator is valued as a professional, and every family feels welcomed and supported.

The Director works in close collaboration with the Educational Leader, Teachers, Educators, families, and the wider community to shape a meaningful, high-quality curriculum that reflects the service’s philosophy and complies with the National Quality Framework. They uphold the highest standards across all Quality Areas, supporting pedagogical growth, operational excellence, and team wellbeing.

A true mentor and motivator, the Director leads with integrity and inspires with their example. They create spaces where reflective practice is embedded, where innovation is encouraged, and where the collective strengths of the team are celebrated. Through clear communication and strategic thinking, they empower staff to grow in confidence and capability, always centring the rights and needs of children in every decision.

With vision, heart, and a deep commitment to early childhood education, the Centre Director builds a thriving learning community—one where children are cherished, educators are empowered, and the future is shaped with care and intention.

Job Summary

The Centre Director is responsible for managing all day-to-day aspects of the service’s operations and providing leadership ensuring high quality education and care provision.

The Centre Director is responsible for:

Educational programs

Supervision and safety of children

Centre operations

Compliance

Policies and procedures

Entry to and exit from the premises

Staffing

Food and beverages

Overseeing physical facilities

Recruiting and monitoring staff and managing the overall image of the centre

Developing relationships that support and partner with families.

They are also responsible to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and educational frameworks governing childcare and manage the financial affairs of the childcare facility alongside the Approved Provider.

Selection Criteria

Qualifications

Desirable to hold an ACECQA approved Diploma level qualification or Early Childhood Teaching qualification www.acecqa.gov.au/qualifications/nqf-approved

Desirable to hold postgraduate/tertiary qualifications in leadership.

A willingness to be appointed as a Nominated Supervisor.

Working with Children Check/ Working with vulnerable people check or equivalent.

Desirable to hold a National Police Check (state/territory relevant).

ACECQA approved First Aid Qualification that includes first aid, emergency asthma management and anaphylaxis management.

Child protection training approved by the relevant state/territory reporting authority.

A suitable compliance history – see www.acecqa.gov.au/media/23791 for a sample template

Experience

Thorough and in-depth knowledge of the:

National Quality Standards.

Education and Care Services National Regulations.

Education and Care National Law.

Approved Learning Framework applicable to service type.

Significant experience in a management position in early childhood settings and evidence of providing inspirational and decisive leadership.

Thorough knowledge of early childhood education and care centre administrative functions.

Knowledge of Workplace Health & Safety.

Capabilities

Highly developed communication, interpersonal and team development skills.

Ability to lead the team in pedagogical matters including curriculum planning and professional development.

Ability to develop, implement and evaluate policies and procedures.

Computer literacy (MS Office Suite, CCMS system, QikKids or similar).

Our Culture at Astelier

At Astelier, we believe that supporting families begins with supporting each other. We are a purpose-driven, family-first community where kindness, professionalism, and collaboration are celebrated every day. Our centres are designed to be joyful, inclusive spaces for both families and staff, where small wins are acknowledged, and every voice is valued. We are committed to sustainability, lifelong learning, and building meaningful connections within our community. If you thrive in an environment where people care deeply about their work and each other, Astelier is the place for you.

Ready to Apply?

If you are passionate about creating positive experiences for families and thrive in an environment where kindness, professionalism, and community are at the heart of everything we do — we would love to hear from you. Join Astelier Children’s Centres and help us make every family's day a little smoother and a lot brighter.