Coordinator, Special Needs Playgroup

Malvern Special Needs Playgroup Inc.; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Malvern Special Needs Playgroup Inc. coordinates an inclusive pre-school program for children with disabilities, working closely with ECT, physiotherapist, occupational therapist and speech pathologist.

The role supports families and volunteers, maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment. The Coordinator will manage day-to-day operations, promote a strengths-based approach, and ensure compliance with child safety, privacy and wellbeing requirements while collaborating with council

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with families and staff.
• Warm, respectful and non-judgmental approach when engaging with children and carers.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and accurate record keeping.
• Understanding of child safety and safeguarding responsibilities.
• Knowledge of disability and early childhood support services, including NDIS and local resources.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate the day-to-day operation of the special needs program.
• Create an inclusive, welcoming environment promoting family-centred support.
• Ensure practices align with child safety, privacy, health and wellbeing requirements.
• Liaise with external therapists, educators and support workers.
• Organise and participate in family information networking sessions.
• Maintain relationships with Stonnington Council and Maternal and Child Health Nurses.
• Manage reporting and data entry for the Department of Family and Community Services (FACS).

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Confidentiality & professionalism

Education

Early childhood/related field background

Job description

The MSNP Coordinator is responsible for coordinating and supporting the delivery of an inclusive pre-school child-centred program for children with a disability and/or developmental delay and their carers/parents. The Coordinator will work closely with the staff team including the Early Childhood Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist and Speech Pathologist as well as a dedicated team of volunteer carers.

Key responsibilities

Coordinate the day-to-day operation of the special needs program

Develop and maintain a welcoming and inclusive environment for the children and their families/carers - promoting a strengths-based, family-centred, and culturally responsive approach

Ensure practices reflect relevant child safety, inclusion, privacy, health and wellbeing requirements

Liaise with other stakeholders, external primary therapists, educators and support workers

Organise and participate in family information networking sessions

Maintain positive relationships with Stonnington Council and Maternal and Child Health Nurses working within the same premises

Manage reporting and data entry for the Department of Family and Community Services (FACS)

About you

A background in early childhood education, disability, allied health, nursing, social work or a related field

Experience working with young children with disability, developmental delay or additional needs

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

A warm respectful and non-judgmental approach to working with children and families

An understanding of child safety and safeguarding responsibilities

The ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and accurate record keeping

Knowledge of disability and early childhood support services, including the NDIS and local community resources

Current First Aid and CPR certification, Working with Children Check, National Police Check and National Child Safety Training

About us

Malvern Special Needs Playgroup (MSNP) is a preschool developmental program providing play-based learning, social connection and support for young children with additional needs and their families. Our welcoming and inclusive community is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment, where each child is valued, included and encouraged to participate at their own pace. We work collaboratively with families, primary therapists and community services to support children's development and wellbeing. The playgroup operates under a voluntary Committee of Management and receives Federal Funding as well as an annual Local Government Grant and private donations. MSNP operates with an Occasional Care Licence with the Early Childhood Department of Education.

Hours

Tuesdays and Thursdays 9.00 am - 3.00 pm (during school terms)

Term 1 - 2027

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 in a Child Protection Role?
• Which of the following First Aid accreditations do you currently hold?