Centre Director - Sorrento

at; Perth; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An early childhood education provider in Perth is seeking an enthusiastic Centre Director to lead a brand new facility in Sorrento. This role offers an opportunity to shape the culture and lead a dedicated team in providing high-quality education. A Diploma in Early Childhood Education is required alongside relevant experience and a passion for child development. The position includes a competitive salary and excellent support.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Childcare discounts

Professional development opportunities

Well-being and Employee Benefits Program

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a 2IC role and/or 1 year’s experience as a Centre Director.
• Must have WA Working with Children Check.
• National Police Clearance required (within 6 months or willing to obtain).
• Strong understanding of the NQF.

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, engaging environment for children.
• Oversee daily operations with a focus on compliance.
• Manage team performance and development.
• Act as Nominated Supervisor for the service.

Skills

Leadership skills

Time management

Communication

Community engagement

Child development understanding

Education

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Job description

At Ascolta, our values Listen, Love, Laugh, and Learn are at the heart of everything we do! We provide a vibrant, child‑led curriculum that blends Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and Inquiry-Based Learning, promoting free‑flow play and child‑led mealtimes.

We’re looking for an enthusiastic, hands‑on, and experienced Centre Director to lead our brand new, purpose‑built 88‑place centre opened late July in Sorrento. While previous Centre Manager experience is preferred, we warmly welcome applications from highly experienced 2ICs ready to step up into leadership.

This isn’t just a job, it’s your opportunity to shape the culture and lead a passionate, fully assembled team (the only missing piece is you!) with the full support of an experienced Area Manager and Operations Manager. At Ascolta Early Learning and Care, we’re passionate about creating magical spaces where children feel seen, heard, and celebrated and we want a leader who shares that vision.

About the Role

Creating a warm, engaging, and safe environment for children and families

Overseeing all daily operations with a focus on excellence and compliance

Building a strong community presence and fostering positive family relationships to support occupancy growth through quality programs and engagement

Managing team performance, development, and wellbeing

Rostering to maintain ratios and stepping in as Responsible Person when required

Ensuring high‑quality education aligned with EYLF and NQS

Acting as Nominated Supervisor for the service

What makes Ascolta Different?

At Ascolta, we give our Centre Directors the time and space to truly lead. With a centralised support team handling the admin load, you can focus on your team, families, and community - while enjoying a workplace that genuinely values and supports you.

What you won’t need to worry about:

Repairs and maintenance

Family payments and fee management

Qualification tracking and compliance alerts

Recruitment, onboarding, and social media marketing

What you’ll love about working with us:

Dedicated office spaces – enjoy a fully stocked staff room with a budget allowance for all the goodies to recharge during the day, plus a separate planning room for your team to program, study, and reflect.

An operations team that values your leadership and the hard work you put into your service – with birthday morning teas, shout‑outs, and thoughtful gifts to ensure you and your team's efforts never go unnoticed.

Team bonding events and celebrations to foster friendships and connection

Celebrating calendar events together to bring fun and community into our workplace

What We Offer You

A rare opportunity to lead a brand‑new centre and shape its future – put your stamp on building culture, community, and an exceptional learning environment from the very beginning.

Competitive, negotiable salary package that reflects your experience and the value you bring as a leader.

Thoughtful, thorough induction process designed to set you up for success and give you the confidence to lead from day one.

Immediate start date – step into your new role without delay.

A supportive Area Manager and hands‑on operations team who will be there to back you every step of the way.

Ongoing career growth and professional development opportunities to help you achieve your long‑term goals.

Beautifully designed learning environments with the latest resources to inspire children and educators alike.

Well‑being and Employee Benefits Program – because your health and happiness matter too.

Generous childcare discounts to support your own family while you support others.

What You’ll Bring

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care minimum

Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a 2IC role and/or minimum of 1 year’s experience as a Centre Director

WA Working with Children Check

National Police Clearance (within 6 months or willing to obtain)

A strong understanding of the NQF and a passion for high‑quality education

Natural leadership, strong time management and the ability to build a great team

Must reside in Perth, WA and have full Australian working rights

About Us

Ascolta means “to listen” in Italian and it perfectly reflects our approach to early childhood education. We believe children thrive when they feel truly heard. Join us in creating something special from day one at Sorrento.

Lead Something Extraordinary! Be the Inaugural Centre Director at Our New Sorrento Service!

Apply Now

If you’re ready to lead a centre from the ground up and make your mark, we’d love to chat.

Your application will include the following questions:

• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
• How many years' experience do you have as a centre director?
• Do you have a current Working With Children (WWC) Check?
• Do you have professional child care experience?
• Have you completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care?
• Do you have a current Police Check (National Police Certificate) for employment?
• Have you worked in a role which requires a sound understanding of the early years learning framework?
• How many years of people management experience do you have?