Job Description:
Are you a passionate and experienced early childhood professional ready to take on a rewarding leadership role in a close-knit and values-driven centre? Belford Oaks Community Children’s Centre (Kew VIC 3101) is seeking a new Centre Director to join our warm, collaborative team and guide our passionate educators in delivering exceptional early learning. This is a unique opportunity to lead a small, not-for-profit service grounded in strong values, deep community ties, and a commitment to inclusive practice. We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which our centre stands, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. We are committed to reconciliation, cultural safety, and embedding First Nations perspectives in all aspects of our practice. ~ About Us Belford Oaks Community Children’s Centre ("Belford Oaks") is a 35-place not-for-profit, community-managed early childhood service located in leafy Kew. With over 36 years of continuous operation and a proud Exceeding rating under the National Quality Standards, we offer long day care for children aged 6 months to school age, including funded 3- and 4-year-old kindergarten programs. Our service is built on strong relationships, collaborative leadership, and a deep belief in the value of early childhood education. We centre children’s wellbeing, foster respectful partnerships with families, and actively support our team through a positive, inclusive culture. ~ About the Role As Centre Director, you’ll take an active role in both the day-to-day operations and long-term direction of our centre. With a strong focus on high-quality early learning and meaningful community engagement, you will: Provide thoughtful leadership and mentorship to a small, passionate team of educators Strengthen a positive, supportive culture among staff and families Foster a warm, inclusive, and respectful environment for all children, families, and staff Uphold and strengthen our proud Exceeding rating, supported by above-ratio staffing that allows for meaningful relationships and reflective practice Work collaboratively with our parent-run Committee of Management to uphold the highest standards Oversee daily operations, including rostering, compliance, occupancy and waitlist management, stakeholder engagement, and continuous quality improvement ~ About You We’re looking for an approachable, knowledgeable and confident leader with a strong commitment to early childhood excellence. You will bring: Experience in a senior leadership role (e.g. Director, Assistant Director, or Acting Director) A Diploma or higher-level ACECQA-approved qualification in early childhood education An Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management (desirable) Strong knowledge of the National Quality Framework, Early Years Learning Framework, and Education and Care Services Regulations Operational strengths in compliance, enrolments, rosters, stakeholder engagement, financial administration, and quality improvement Excellent digital literacy skills, including confidence using platforms like Microsoft 365 and early childhood software systems (e.g. for enrolments, documentation and communication) An ability to build warm, respectful relationships with children, families, colleagues, and external stakeholders A deep commitment to safety, cultural inclusion, and ethical leadership - upholding our Child Safe Policy and Code of Conduct, and maintaining zero tolerance for racism, discrimination, or inappropriate behaviour Current WWCC, First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis, Asthma, and Child Protection certificates, and National Police Check (or willingness to obtain) Current working rights in Australia ~ Why Join Us? This is a rare opportunity to lead a well-established, highly regarded, and values-driven centre where your impact will be tangible. Earn between Level 6.1 and 6.3 (Children Services Award 2010) , depending on experience and position Above Award wages, with a regular salary review period Dedicated support from our passionate and collaborative Committee of Management and strong community involvement Well above ratio staffing (e.g., 3 full-time educators in both of our Babies and Toddler Rooms, each with a capacity of 10 children) Monthly Rostered Days Off (RDOs) & 2-3-week closure over Christmas and New Year IT and digital resources in every room to support programming, documentation, and communication Access to a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) On-street parking and close proximity to public transport Regular team social events and opportunities to build community with families Paid professional development opportunities ~ Apply Now If you're ready to bring your leadership, warmth, and vision to a centre that truly values its people, we’d love to hear from you. Please include a cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria below. ~ Key Selection Criteria Approved early childhood qualification and a sound understanding of the NQF, EYLF, and regulatory requirements Proven experience in team leadership and mentoring to support a cohesive and engaged educator team Operational strengths in centre management including compliance, enrolments, rosters, financial administration, and a proactive approach to continuous quality improvement Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, relationship-centred approach A commitment to upholding Child Safe Standards and embedding inclusive, culturally safe practices Strong digital skills, including confidence with Microsoft 365 and sector-specific platforms
Required Skills:
Pay
Operations
Compliance
Stakeholder Engagement
Protection
Closure
Regulatory Requirements
Award
Daily Operations
First Aid
Salary
Partnerships
Mentoring
Communication Skills
Team Leadership
Programming
Regulations
Education
Administration
Documentation
Software
Leadership
Communication
Management