• Seeking an experienced Centre manager with a proactive approach and innovative ideas to work within a community co operative where families and children actively support and lead decision making alongside a voluntary Board of Management.
• Community engagement and a natural learning environment are a focus at John Street Community Cooperative of 57 places.
• A leader who values and supports staff, and is motivated and committed, would find this position both professionally and personally rewarding.
• Lead a genuine community of educators and families.
• Autonomy and opportunity to implement your ideas and shape the future of the Centre.
• Above award benefits - we offer 5% above award rate for the right candidate as well as ongoing professional development.
• An inclusive workplace that respects diversity.

We are seeking an experienced Centre Director to lead our community cooperative into the next phase of its over 45 year history. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a much-treasured institution in Fitzroy as well as leave a legacy for our children, families, educators and community.

John Street Community Cooperative

In the heart of Fitzroy, “John Street” is a safe haven for learning. Where individuals are valued and children have the opportunity to explore and grow. Blessed with an abundance of outdoor space and nearby parks and recently upgraded Centre, John Street is a unique place that children, educators and families love to be.

John Street was established 1973. It is a provider of high quality kindergarten and long day care for children from 4 months to 5 years of age. The co-operative is run by a Committee of Management made up of volunteer parents who are directly responsible for the overall management of the Long Day Care Centre (LDC) and the Kindergarten Program.

John Street’s commitment to child safety

At John Street, we are committed to the safety, participation and empowerment of all children. All allegations and safety concerns will be treated very seriously with our robust policies, procedures and training. We promote each child’s right to be an active member of the community in which they live, to have their individual and cultural identity recognised and respected, and to express their opinions and have their views considered in any decisions that may affect them.

Your role

You will report to our volunteer parent Board and support our committed and talented team of educators to:

• Ensure John Street facilitates a play-based learning environment and develops learning programs responsive to children’s ideas, strengths and abilities that inspire independent learners, build upon and enhance our kindergarten programs
• Provide leadership and management to educators and staff regarding all aspects of the operation of the service in line with relevant regulations, policies and procedures
• Liaise closely with and provide periodical reports to the Board regarding matters relating to the operation of the service
• Support educators and staff with professional training and mentoring to effectively manage the service, whilst providing feedback regarding performance on a regular systematic basis
• Actively uphold children’s rights and ensure decisions made for the Centre have the rights and interests of the children as the guiding principle.

Qualifications and essential experience:

• Degree in Early Childhood from a recognised University (as listed on the approved qualification list by ACECQA), or Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (or equivalent)
• Current First Aid, anaphylaxis and emergency asthma management training, Accredited Child Protection Training
• Valid Working with Children Check, Police Check, or equivalent pre-employment checks
• Reference checks, including in relation to child safety and wellbeing
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a Nominated Supervisor position in an Early Childhood Service or Minimum 5 years’ experience in a leadership position in an Early Childhood Service
• Proven ability in all areas of administrative procedure, curriculum development, parent and community liaison, staff professional development and training, team leadership and management of staff and successful management of budget.
• Demonstrated knowledge of applicable regulations.

Selection criteria

In addition to the above:

• Demonstrated suitability to work with children and experience in providing a secure and supportive environment for children, educators and families.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work well with others (staff/educators, children, families), to foster a team environment.
• Demonstrated leadership skills in implementing ideas to achieve an Exceeding rated centre.
• Experience with budgeting and financial software, Xero desirable, to complete accounts receivable/payable and payroll.

Queries about the role should be addressed to Tach Agostinho: [email protected] using the subject line: Centre Director enquiry via EthicalJobs.