Early Childhood Educator (Room Leader)

Early Learning Victoria; Ballarat; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation incentive up to $8,000

Job summary

Early Learning Victoria is opening a new early learning centre in Avoca, co-located with Avoca Primary School. As the Room Leader you will guide a team delivering long day care and kindergarten programs in a play-based environment aligned with state and national standards.

You will plan and program with educators, mentor staff, and engage families to create a supportive learning community while ensuring safe, high-quality practice. Relocation support may be available for eligible candidates.

Qualifications

• ACECQA-approved diploma level qualification, or actively working towards a diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care
• Valid Working with Children Check, First Aid, CPR, anaphylaxis and asthma qualifications and completion of National Child Safety Training
• 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

Responsibilities

• Lead the team to deliver high-quality early childhood education and care aligned with National Quality Standards and relevant frameworks
• Lead planning and programming in collaboration with educators to uphold the centre's educational program and philosophy
• Collaborate with the management team to role model pedagogical practices and mentor educators, engaging with families to support a positive environment

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship building

Play-based pedagogy

Education

ACECQA-approved diploma

Job description

Early Learning Victoria (ELV), as part of the Department of Education, is leading the roll‑out of 50 government‑owned and operated early learning centres by 2032, with 18 currently operating. Our centres offer long day care, three and four‑year‑old kindergarten and pre‑prep in accessible, 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.

ELV is approved for the Commonwealths Worker Retention Grant, which provides a 15% wage increase for eligible staff.

About the Role

Opening in 2027 and co‑located with Avoca Primary School, Early Learning Victoria Avoca is a 57-place centre and will provide long day care, Three‑Year‑Old Kindergarten and Four‑Year‑Old Kindergarten programs.

In this role, you will:

Lead the team to deliver high‑quality early childhood education and care, guided by evidence‑informed, contemporary pedagogy and practice aligned with the National Quality Standards, Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework and National Education and Care Law and Regulations

Be responsible for leading the planning and programming in consultation with other educators to uphold the centre's educational program and philosophy, ensuring practices are in line with national standards and regulations

Collaborate with the management team to role model pedagogical practices aligned with the educational philosophy, foster a positive work culture by mentoring educators, as well as playing a key role in engaging with families to nurture a supportive environment

More information about this role can be found HERE.

• Financial Incentives including a relocation incentive of up to $8,000 may be applicable (subject to eligibility)

About You

Demonstrated experience as an Early Childhood Room Leader, delivering a high‑quality play‑based educational program

High‑level understanding of the Victorian Early Years Learning 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

Qualifications and Experience

ACECQA‑approved diploma level qualification, or actively working towards a diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care

Valid Working with Children Check, First Aid, CPR, anaphylaxis and asthma qualifications and completion of National Child Safety Training

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

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. OurStaff 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.

For more information about the role, or to request adjustments for participation in the recruitment process, please contact Julie Turner on ************@education.vic.gov.au

Applications close 11:59pm on Sunday, 11 October 2026.