Collard’s Childcare & Kindergarten – A Boutique, Family-Owned Early Learning Centre

Collard’s is a boutique, family-owned and operated long day care and kindergarten with over 30 years of experience, located in Mill Park. Our centre is a true home away from home for both children and educators.

We are a proud Child Safe Organisation, committed to embedding the Victorian Child Safe Standards in our everyday practice. To support the safety and wellbeing of all children and educators, CCTV cameras are in operation across all indoor and outdoor play areas.

Our thoughtfully designed playrooms feature beautiful wooden cupboards, wooden blocks, a cosy home corner, a library, and a creative art area. Outdoors, children explore large sandpits, a traffic school, wrap-around verandas, and lush gardens surrounded by developing trees – creating a peaceful and inspiring environment.

We offer a sessional kindergarten program delivered by a full-time kindergarten teacher in a dedicated kinder room. This position is not for a kindergarten teacher, but for a Diploma-qualified educator and Team Leader to work in one of our playrooms.

Our Curriculum Is Grounded In:

Inquiry-based learning

STEAM education

The 3a (Abecedarian) Approach Australia

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLDF)

Victorian Child Safe Standards

Our 3–6-year-old children enjoy weekly/fortnightly excursions to Pit gymnastics, Blue fit swim school & the Mill Park Library, supporting their learning, wellbeing, and connection to the local community.

We Offer:

Free on-site parking

Supportive leadership and a collaborative, nurturing team culture

A beautiful, well-resourced environment that values educators as professionals

Team Leaders are paid 6 Weeks annual leave per year (T & C'S apply)

About You – Diploma Educator & Team Leader

You are a bright, happy, energetic educator who strives to nurture and educate children with warmth and professionalism. You bring a strength-based leadership approach, inspiring others to grow in confidence and strengthen their practice.

You:

Promote collaboration and shared goals within the team

Act as a mentor, fostering professional growth and celebrating achievements

Create a nurturing environment where educators feel valued and motivated

Empower educators to deliver the best outcomes for children and families

Are committed to embedding Child Safe Standards in everyday practice

Are confident in your knowledge of early childhood education and care (ACECQA recognised)

Have experience working with children aged 0–6 years

Are self-motivated and proactive in nurturing and supporting children

Plan inquiry-based, play-based learning experiences

Build strong, respectful relationships with children and families

Use strength-based behaviour guidance strategies

Have a strong understanding of VEYLDF, NQF, Education and Care Regulations, and Child Safe Standards

Communicate effectively and manage time well

Are fit, active, and hands-on with a common-sense approach to everyday practice

To Apply:

If this sounds like the right fit for you, please send your:

Resume

Cover letter

A recent colour photo of yourself

Copies of your Current Working with Children Check (WWCC), Child Protection Certificate, First Aid certificates, and original qualifications

To: Melissa Collard
[email protected]