Lead Educator: Shape Play-Based Learning

Explorers Early Learning; Mornington; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive above-award pay

15% workers retention payment

Significant childcare discounts

Ongoing professional development

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

A leading early childhood education provider in Mornington is seeking a Lead Educator to inspire and empower both children and staff within a Reggio Emilia-inspired environment. Responsibilities include leading a team, creating engaging learning spaces, and ensuring quality in care. Ideal candidates have a diploma or higher qualification, strong commitment to child safety, and experience in early learning. Join our team to grow, contribute, and lead in a supportive setting.

Qualifications

• Experience leading or mentoring within an early learning setting.
• Completion of the National Child Safety Training.
• Current First Aid, Asthma & Anaphylaxis certifications.

Responsibilities

• Guide and mentor your team to deliver high-quality, play-based learning experiences.
• Design thoughtful spaces that spark curiosity, creativity, and exploration.
• Develop strong partnerships with children, families, and your team.

Skills

Leading and mentoring others

Strong commitment to child safety

Passion for working with children

Education

ACECQA-approved qualification (Diploma or higher)

Job description

At Explorers Early Learning, we believe exceptional educators don’t just teach, they lead, inspire and empower those around them. Join our team at Explorers Mornington as a Lead Educator and take the next step in your career within a centre where curiosity is encouraged, relationships are valued, and every day brings something new.

Working within our Reggio Emilia-inspired approach, you’ll lead your room with confidence and guide meaningful learning experiences that support children to explore, discover and grow.

A Typical Day as a Lead Educator includes:

• Leading Inspiring Practice - Guide and mentor your team to deliver high-quality, play-based learning experiences

• Creating Engaging Environments - Design thoughtful spaces that spark curiosity, creativity, and exploration

• Building Meaningful Relationships - Develop strong partnerships with children, families, and your team

• Supporting Team Growth - Coach and support educators to build capability, confidence, and consistency

• Championing Quality & Compliance - Ensure your room meets best practice standards in curriculum and care

• Competitive above-award pay + 15% workers retention payment

• Monthly RDOs to give you time to recharge

• Significant childcare discounts for your family

• Ongoing professional development and clear career progression pathways

• Access to our Explorers Star Program and leadership opportunities

• A vibrant team culture with recognition programs, events, and celebrations

• Fully funded First Aid training and renewals

• Referral bonuses when you bring great people into our team

• Exclusive employee retail discount program

• Employee Assistance Program to support your wellbeing

What you’ll need:

• ACECQA-approved qualification (Diploma or higher)

• Experience leading or mentoring within an early learning setting

• Passion for working with children, particularly under 3 years old

• Strong commitment to child safety and wellbeing

• Completion of the National Child Safety Training (Foundations of Child Safety)

• Current First Aid, Asthma & Anaphylaxis certifications

• Working with Children Check & Mandatory Reporting

• Australian working rights

Founded by Lynda Salvo, Explorers Early Learning was built on a clear vision to create environments where both children and educators can truly thrive. Today, that vision continues to guide everything we do. We’re proud to be a founder-led, women-led organisation that invests in its people. That means real career pathways, genuine support, and a culture where you’re encouraged to grow, contribute, and lead.

At Explorers, you’ll be part of a team that values collaboration, celebrates achievements, and supports you to become the best version of yourself, as both an educator and a leader.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities. Explorers Early Learning is a child-safe organisation, committed to the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children.

Step into leadership with purpose. Apply today.