Early Childhood Educator (Diploma)

government schools; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Early Learning Victoria, part of the Department of Education, seeks an Early Childhood Educator (Range 2) in Melbourne's southern suburbs. You will support high-quality play-based learning, align with the National Quality Standards and state frameworks, and foster inclusive relationships with families and staff.

Diploma qualified, you will coordinate teaching strategies and work within a team to deliver developmentally appropriate programs in a safe, child-centered environment.

Qualifications

• Diploma-level qualification in Early Childhood Education and Care (ACECQA approved).
• Strong knowledge of play-based pedagogy and child development frameworks.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building with families, children and staff.

Responsibilities

• Support delivery of high-quality early childhood education guided by contemporary pedagogy.
• Coordinate an environment where children can flourish and thrive, aligned with relevant standards.
• Develop and deliver integrated teaching strategies based on individual learning needs.
• Build positive, respectful relationships with families and colleagues to ensure inclusive environments.

Skills

Play-based pedagogy

Communication

Family engagement

Team collaboration

Education

ACECQA approved diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care

Job description

Grade: Early Childhood Educator - Range 2

Occupation: Education and training

Location: Melbourne - Southern suburbs

Reference: 1550868

About Early Learning Victoria

About Early Learning Victoria

Early Learning Victoria (ELV), as part of the Department of Education, is rolling out new early learning centres. There are 18 currently operating with 6 more opening in 2027. Our centres offer long day care, 3- and 4-Year-Old Kinder, with more hours of 4-Year-Old Kinder over time and play-based environments connected to local communities. We are committed to creating enriching work environments, encouraging professional growth, and maintaining the highest standards of child safety.

In this role, you will:

• Support the team to deliver high-quality early childhood education guided by evidence-informed, contemporary pedagogy and practice
• Coordinate an environment where children can flourish and thrive, aligned with the National Quality Standards, Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework and National Education and Care Law and Regulations
• Develop, deliver and coordinate integrated teaching and learning strategies guided by the individual learning and development needs of each child
• Build positive, respectful and collaborative relationships with families, children and colleagues, ensuring an inclusive environment where each child's needs are met

The position description for this role can be found HERE.

About You

• Demonstrated experience as an early childhood educator (Diploma qualified), delivering a high-quality play-based educational program
• Strong understanding of the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework, Education Care Services National Law and Regulations, the National Quality Framework and Child Safe Standards
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills with staff, children, families and communities
• Experience working with children and families experiencing vulnerability is desirable

Qualifications and Experience

• ACECQA approved diploma level qualification in Early Childhood Education and Care, or actively working towards completion
• Valid Working with Children Check, First Aid, CPR, anaphylaxis and asthma qualifications; completion of Protecting Children - Mandatory Reporting online learning
• Agreement to a police check; an international police check must be provided for candidates who have resided outside of Australia for 12+ months in the last 10 years
• Food Safety Supervisor Certificate; Safe Sleep Training is desirable

For more information about the role, or to request adjustments for participation in the recruitment process, please contact Jenni Menon, Centre Director on [e-mail]

Applications close 11:59pm on Wednesday, 11 November 2026.

ELV is a child-safe organisation committed to creating environments where children are safe, valued, and respected. We maintain zero tolerance for child abuse, harm, neglect, or discrimination in any form. All staff are required to uphold the Child Safe Standards and actively contribute to a culture of child safety. Our Staff Code of Conduct policy outlines expected standards of behaviour for all staff and defines appropriate interactions with children; adherence is mandatory.

The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions, visit the Department website.

Applications close Wednesday 11 November 2026 at 11.59pm