Lead Educator (Room Leader) - Holder ELC

The Y Australia; North Canberra; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Workers Retention Grant

Health & Wellbeing

Career Growth

Perks & Discounts

Paid Training

WWVP Renewal Reimbursement

Health Cover Discount

Job summary

The Y Australia is seeking a Lead Educator for the Holder Early Learning Centre in Canberra region. You will lead and mentor staff, collaborate with families and implement a child-centered program inspired by Reggio Emilia principles.

The role requires a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, full-time availability, and a commitment to safeguarding and ongoing professional development within a supportive YMCA environment.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (ACECQA-approved) is mandatory.
• Full-time availability, Monday to Friday, 7.6 hours per day (7:00 am–6:00 pm).
• Experience in the early childhood sector.
• Solid knowledge of EYLF, NQF and NQS.

Responsibilities

• Lead Educator to nurture and guide young learners and support centre vision.
• Collaborate with team, children and families in a mentoring environment.
• Act as advocate for children’s learning and development and encourage professional growth.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Education

Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (ACECQA-approved)

Job description

We are seeking a motivated Full-Time Lead Educator to be part of our Holder Early Learning Centre, a place where you're not just another staff member, but a valued member of a family! If you’re ready to make a real difference in the lives of children, and grow alongside a team that celebrates learning, creativity, and community, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for!

About the Centre

At Holder Early Learning Centre, we believe every child is a capable and curious learner. Our beautifully designed open-plan environment, filled with natural light and thoughtfully arranged spaces, invites children to explore, create, and connect in a warm and welcoming setting.

As part of the Y Canberra Region, we’re proud to foster a strong sense of belonging, community, and partnership with families.

Every day at YMCA Holder is an opportunity to explore, discover, and grow. We invite you to visit and experience the difference of a centre where your child is truly seen, heard, and valued.

We follow a Reggio Emilia-inspired, inquiry-based approach to early learning. Our program encourages children to dive into Units of Inquiry—projects based on their interests—guided by passionate educators who observe, listen, and collaborate.

The Role

As a Lead Educator, you will play a key role in nurturing and guiding young learners while contributing to the overall vision of our centre. You will collaborate closely with your team, children, and families, working in a supportive and mentoring environment that promotes growth and professional development.

We want someone who is eager to innovate, reflect on their practice, and be a passionate advocate for children’s learning and development. If you’re looking for a role where your voice is heard, your ideas are valued, and your career growth is encouraged then we’d love to hear from you!

Qualifications & Experience

Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (ACECQA-approved) — mandatory.

Full-time availability, Monday to Friday, to work 7.6-hour shifts between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.

Demonstrated experience working in the early childhood education and care sector.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Sound knowledge of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), National Quality Framework (NQF) and National Quality Standard (NQS).

Current ACT Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) registration for paid employment, or willingness to obtain prior to commencement.

Do Food Safely certificate, or willingness to obtain.

Current First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain.

Current Asthma and Anaphylaxis certification, or willingness to obtain.

Completion of all mandatory Y internal online training modules prior to commencement.

Completion of Geccko Foundations of Child Safety Training Courses 1 and 2, or willingness to complete prior to commencement.

Completion of Geccko Advanced Child Safety Training Courses 3 and 4, or willingness to complete prior to commencement.

Completion of the ACT Government’s Keeping Children and Young People Safe training, or willingness to complete prior to commencement.

Why Join The Y?

At The Y, we’re committed to creating a rewarding and supportive workplace where both children and our team thrive. Here’s why you’ll love working with us:

• Workers Retention Grant - We are a proud participant in the Workers Retention Grant, supporting employment stability and growth within our sector.
• Health & Wellbeing Support – Enjoy free flu shots and 24/7 access to confidential counselling for you and your immediate family through Telus Health Global.
• Career Growth – Advance with industry-leading training, including Child Safeguarding certifications.
• Employee Perks & Discounts – Access exclusive rewards through Y Thanks, plus 20% off Y Canberra Region services, including childcare fees and accommodation.
• Paid Onboarding & Training – Start strong with fully paid training from day one.
• WWVP & WWCC Renewal Reimbursement – We reimburse the cost of your Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) check and Working with Children Check (WWCC) renewal (for eligible staff).
• Medibank Corporate Health Cover – Get a 9% discount on your health insurance.
• Beny - Get access to exclusive perks and insights made to enhance physical, mental, social and financial wellbeing

Salary Packaging Benefits - Salary packaging available from 16 November 2026 - up to $15,899 per FBT year, plus an additional $2,650 for Meals and Entertainment.

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

The Y Canberra Region has a commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable people first and foremost in all of our programs and activities. We have extensive Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy and Procedures which help us to continually embed a safe culture. The safety, health, and wellbeing of our participants is our paramount consideration in all decisions, actions, and practices within Y Canberra Region’s services. To find out more please visit: Safeguarding-Policy-2020-1.pdf

• Candidates must have the legal right to work in Australia without sponsorship.
• Pre-employment checks include:
• Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC)
• International Police Check - If applicable
• Two verbal reference checks - At least one referee must be your manager or supervisor from your most recent role
• Applications close on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM, unless a suitable candidate is found earlier.
• Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.