Assistant Director (2Ic)

Cottage Kids Community Preschool is seeking an Assistant Director. 

Location: Berkeley Vale, NSW 2261

About Us: Cottage Kids Community Preschool is a nature-based service dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care. Our service philosophy is grounded in the belief that children learn best through meaningful interactions with nature, fostering a sense of wonder, curiosity, and connection to the world around them. 

Position Overview: We are seeking a passionate and experienced Assistant Director to join and leader our team. The Assistant Director will play a crucial role in supporting the Director in the overall management and operation of the service, ensuring alignment with our service philosophy and the EYLF framework, and maintaining a nurturing environment that embraces nature-based learning experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Collaborate with Centre Stakeholders, including Centre Director to develop and implement policies, procedures, and practices that reflect service philosophy and align with the EYLF framework.
• Provide visionary leadership and support to educators, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and innovation.
• Assist in the recruitment, induction, and professional development of staff members, emphasising our commitment to nature-based education.

Curriculum Development and Implementation:

• Work closely with Cottage Kids Stakeholders to plan and deliver a nature-based curriculum that reflects service philosophy and promotes children's holistic development.
• Ensure that curriculum activities and experiences are designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a sense of environmental stewardship.

Assessment and Documentation:

• Oversee the ongoing assessment of children's learning and development, using a variety of observation and documentation methods that capture their interactions with nature.
• Maintain accurate records of children's progress and use this information to inform curriculum planning and individualised support, in line with our commitment to child-centred practices.

Partnership and Communication:

• Build strong relationships with families, communicating regularly to share insights about children's experiences, progress, and connections to nature.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including community organisations and agencies, to enrich our programs and services and promote environmental sustainability.

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, and accreditation standards, including National Quality Framework (NQF) requirements, while upholding our service philosophy.
• Conduct regular internal assessments and participate in external assessments to maintain and enhance the quality of our nature-based learning environment.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (required).
• Previous experience working in a leadership or management role within an early childhood education setting (preferred).
• Deep understanding of nature-based education principles and a commitment to integrating them into daily practices.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Current First Aid Certificate, Child protection, CPR, Working with Children Check, and any other relevant certifications. (or willingness to obtain on or prior to commencement)

Benefits:

• Competitive above the award wages.
• Professional development opportunities, including training in nature-based education.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Carparking on site.
• Uniform provided.
• Closed over the Christmas and New Year periods for 1 week.

How to Apply:

If you are a dedicated and passionate Early Childhood Leader who values nature-based education, and you want to make a difference in the lives of young children, we would love to hear from you. 

Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and why you are the ideal candidate for this position to Cass *****@cottagekids.com.au or via seek.

Cottage Kids Community Preschool is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Application Deadline: 08/06/2024.