Early Childhood Educator (Room Leader)

Early Learning Victoria; Ballarat; On-site; AUD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation incentive up to $8,000

Job summary

Early Learning Victoria is opening a new 57-place centre co-located with Avoca Primary School, offering long day care and 3- and 4-Year-Old Kinder. You will lead the team to deliver high-quality, play-based education aligned with national and Victorian standards and collaborate with management to model best practices.

The role requires a diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (or in progress), WWCC and First Aid certifications, and a commitment to child safety.

Qualifications

• ACECQA-approved diploma level qualification, or actively working towards a diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
• Strong knowledge of Victorian Early Years Learning Development Framework and National Quality Framework.
• Ability to engage with families and support vulnerable children.

Responsibilities

• Lead the team to deliver high-quality early childhood education and care.
• Plan and program in consultation with educators to uphold the centre's educational program and philosophy.
• Mentor educators and engage with families to foster a supportive environment.

Skills

Room Leadership

Education

Diploma in Early Childhood Education

Job description

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.

ELV is approved for the Commonwealth’s 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 Gayap is a 57-place centre and will provide long day care and 3- and 4-Year-Old Kinder 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

• 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

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

Applications close 11:59pm on Tuesday 24 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. 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.