Role Overview
The Vice Principal / Teaching Lead supports the Centre Leader in overseeing daily operations, ensuring high teaching quality, and guiding the teaching team in curriculum, pedagogy, and classroom practices. This role includes both leadership and teaching responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Centre Support
- Assist the Principal/Centre Leader in daily preschool operations.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to teachers to ensure high-quality teaching and care.
- Support centre compliance with ECDA, licensing, and regulatory requirements.
- Contribute to centre improvement plans and quality assurance frameworks (e.g., SPARK).
- Represent the centre professionally in meetings, audits, and parent communications as needed.
2. Teaching & Classroom Support
- Take on teaching duties as part of the Teaching Lead role.
- Model effective classroom management, lesson planning, and positive guidance strategies.
- Support teachers in implementing developmentally appropriate practices.
- Step in to lead or support classes when teachers are on leave or when needed.
3. Curriculum & Pedagogical Leadership
- Oversee curriculum planning, review, and implementation for all levels.
- Ensure teaching practices align with the centre’s philosophy, frameworks, and learning goals.
- Conduct lesson observations and provide actionable feedback to teachers.
- Organise curriculum meetings, training, and professional development sessions.
4. Staff Development & Performance Management
- Guide new teachers in onboarding, standards, and processes.
- Support performance appraisals with documented observations and feedback.
- Identify training needs and recommend professional development opportunities.
5. Parent Partnership & Communication
- Build positive, respectful relationships with parents.
- Address parent concerns professionally and promptly.
- Support centre events, communications, and engagements with families.
6. Centre Administration
- Assist in maintaining staffing schedules and classroom deployment.
- Ensure accurate documentation, reports, and communication.
- Support the smooth running of daily routines, operations, and school events.
Requirements
Qualifications
- At least Diploma in Early Childhood Care & Education – Teaching (DECCE-T) or equivalent.
- Preferably Advanced Diploma, Leadership (DECCE-L), or other EC leadership qualifications.
Experience
- Minimum 5 years of teaching experience in early childhood settings.
- Prior leadership, senior teacher, or curriculum leadership experience is an advantage.
Skills & Attributes
- Strong classroom management and teaching expertise.
- Effective communication and leadership skills.
- Ability to mentor, coach, and support teachers.
- Strong sense of responsibility, organisation, and professionalism.
- Warm, positive, and collaborative working style.