Assistant Director – RECE Leadership Role at Hearts in Bloom Academy

Sentient HR Services; Mississauga; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A childcare service provider in Mississauga is seeking an experienced Assistant Director to support the Centre Director in managing educators and enhancing the curriculum. Candidates should possess a relevant Early Childhood Education qualification, at least 5 years of RECE experience, and strong leadership skills to foster a nurturing environment. This position offers a blend of classroom mentorship and operational management responsibilities that shape young children's lives.

Qualifications

• Registered Early Childhood Educator required.
• Minimum 5 years of RECE experience in licensed childcare environments.
• At least 1-2 years of leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Lead RECE, mentoring educators and ensuring curriculum delivery.
• Develop impactful programming and manage enrollment processes.
• Assist the Director with hiring, onboarding, and staff development.
• Confidently manage center operations in the Director’s absence.

Skills

Exceptional communication skills

Organizational skills

Leadership

Flexibility

Education

Diploma or Degree in Early Childhood Education

Tools

Microsoft Office

Childcare management software (Lillio)

Job description

Overview

Inspire. Lead. Thrive. Join Our Dedicated Christian Childcare Community!

Hearts in Bloom Academy, a vibrant and welcoming Christian childcare centre located in Mississauga, is seeking a passionate and experienced Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) to step into the rewarding role of Assistant Director. If you have a heart for nurturing young children, a flair for leadership, and a commitment to providing exceptional early childhood education, we want to hear from you!

Why Join Hearts in Bloom Academy?

Be part of a caring, supportive Christian educational environment.

Engage in a meaningful role combining hands-on classroom leadership and centre management.

Benefit from ongoing professional development and career advancement opportunities.

Enjoy working with a dedicated, compassionate team in a welcoming community.

Your Impact as Assistant Director

As our Assistant Director, you will support our Centre Director in guiding our educators, enriching our emergent curriculum, and ensuring the highest standards of childcare and education. This role uniquely blends classroom mentorship with operational leadership, allowing you to significantly shape the lives of children, families, and staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Classroom Leadership: Serve as Lead RECE, mentoring educators and elevating curriculum delivery. Design and lead engaging, meaningful activities including storytelling, arts, and community exploration. Ensure a safe, inclusive, stimulating environment aligned with emergent curriculum principles. Oversee daily classroom routines and transitions with warmth and structure.
• Program Development & Family Engagement: Develop impactful programming based on ELECT and How Does Learning Happen? frameworks. Manage enrolment processes, bi-weekly billing, attendance tracking, subsidies, and child records with professionalism and accuracy. Build genuine, collaborative relationships with families through clear, empathetic communication.
• Staff Mentorship & Team Development: Assist the Director with hiring, onboarding, scheduling, and ongoing educator development. Provide constructive feedback, coaching, and mentorship to help educators achieve professional goals. Co-facilitate staff meetings, professional development sessions, and training initiatives.
• Operational Leadership: Confidently manage centre operations in the Director’s absence. Prepare and submit compliance reports, ensuring alignment with licensing, health & safety, and centre policies.

Qualifications You'll Bring

• Diploma or Degree in Early Childhood Education (Registered Early Childhood Educator required).
• Minimum 5 years of RECE experience in licensed childcare environments.
• At least 1-2 years of leadership experience (Assistant Director, Supervisor, or Room Leader).
• Comprehensive knowledge of CCEYA regulations and childcare best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with childcare management software (Lillio) an asset.

Certifications & Requirements

• Valid First Aid and Infant / Child CPR certification.
• Active, good-standing registration with the College of Early Childhood Educators.
• Current Vulnerable Sector Police Check (required prior to employment).

Skills & Attributes for Success

• Exceptional communication skills—verbal and written.
• Organized, compassionate, and approachable leadership style.
• Ability to calmly and professionally navigate complex or sensitive situations.
• Flexibility to attend occasional after-hours events or meetings.
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a collaborative spirit.