Early Childhood Educator (Diploma Qualified)

Part Time – 22 hours per week
Commencing - 27 January 2026

About Waverley Meadows Preschool

Waverley Meadows Preschool, located in Wheelers Hill on the land of the Boon wurrung People of the Kulin Nations, offers high-quality funded three and four-year-old Kindergarten programs. We are rated Exceeding the National Quality Standard in all seven quality areas (September 2025).

Our pedagogy is deeply informed by the Reggio Emilia approach, creating environments of wonder, investigation, and connection to nature and culture. Educators engage in project work with children, following their ideas and inquiries to build meaningful, collaborative learning experiences. Programs are guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF), co-designed with children, families, and educators. We are proud of our Nature Kindergarten program and strong community partnerships, including Seeing Eye Dogs Australia (SEDA), and the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation.

Statement of Commitment to Child Safety

Waverley Meadows Preschool is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. This is the primary focus of our care and decision-making.
- We have zero tolerance for child abuse.
- We provide a safe environment where children feel safe, respected, and heard.
- We pay particular attention to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children, children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and children with disability.
- Every person at Waverley Meadows Preschool has a responsibility to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children in all actions and decisions.

Position Description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Diploma-qualified Early Childhood Educator to join our team as a co-educator in the four-year-old group.

- Hours: 22 hours per week
• Contact: Tues, Wed & Fri (15 hrs)
• Whole-centre planning: Wed morning
• Non-contact: for preparation, documentation, and environment setup

- The successful candidate will work collaboratively with the teaching team to design, implement, and document high-quality, developmentally appropriate programs.
- You will bring a passion for Reggio Emilia-inspired practice, project work, documentation, and nature pedagogy, while contributing your own ideas and professional experience.
- All employees must hold a current WWCC, First Aid, CPR, Asthma, Anaphylaxis, and Mandatory Reporting certificates, and comply with our Code of Conduct.

Key Selection Criteria

Applicants must address the following in their cover letter:

1. Demonstrated knowledge and experience (minimum 2 years) with the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, including how this informs practice in an Australian context.
2. Proven ability (minimum 2 years experience) to engage children in long-term project work, supporting inquiry, collaboration, and creativity.
3. Strong understanding of the VEYLDF, EYLF v2.0, and the Planning Cycle.
4. Experience (minimum 2 years) in documentation of children's learning (e.g. observations, learning stories, assessments, individual goals, project documentation).
5. Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team and work respectfully with children, families, and the community.
6. Experience using technology (e.g. iPads, Google Drive, PicCollage) to support teaching and documentation.
7. A commitment to ongoing professional learning and reflective practice.
8. Knowledge of the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations.

Qualifications

- Approved Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (or equivalent Children's Services qualification)
- Ability to act as Responsible Person/person in day-to-day charge if required
- Current Working with Children Check
- Current certificates (within validity periods) in First Aid, CPR, Asthma, Anaphylaxis, and Mandatory Reporting
- Current National Police Check (or willingness to obtain)
- Right to work in Australia

📌 Applications: Please submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria.