Childcare Centre Manager - Nurturing Environment

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Annual leave

Training opportunities

Community engagement

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Childcare Centre Manager to lead daily operations, ensure high-quality early childhood education, and foster a safe, nurturing environment for young learners.

You will manage a team of educators, oversee budgeting and compliance, build strong relationships with parents and the community, and drive improvements in curriculum, health, safety, and admissions.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Early Childhood Development (Diploma or Degree).
• Minimum 5 years in childcare, with 2–3 years in supervision/management.
• Strong knowledge of ECE principles, pedagogy and curricula.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent knowledge of Western Cape regulations.
• Budgeting and financial management proficiency.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build relationships with staff, parents and stakeholders.
• Organised, detail-oriented, able to manage multiple priorities.
• First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the childcare centre.
• Lead, manage, mentor and inspire a team of childcare professionals.
• Ensure implementation of a high-quality curriculum and programs.
• Maintain compliance with legislation, regulations and licensing requirements.
• Develop and manage the centre's budget, ensuring financial viability.
• Foster positive communication with parents, families and the community.
• Implement health, safety and hygiene policies and procedures.
• Manage admissions, enrolments and maintain accurate records.
• Conduct regular staff performance appraisals and facilitate professional development opportunities.
• Handle parent inquiries, concerns, and complaints professionally and timely.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the centre.
• Ensure the centre environment is welcoming, stimulating, and safe for all children.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Early childhood education

Budgeting

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Education

Diploma in Early Childhood Development

Degree in related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded childcare facility located in the picturesque town of **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Childcare Centre Manager. This leadership role is crucial for overseeing the daily operations of the centre, ensuring the provision of high-quality early childhood education and care in a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment. You will lead a team of dedicated educators, manage administrative functions, maintain compliance with regulatory standards, and foster strong relationships with parents and the local community. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of child development, and a passion for early learning. This is a hands‑on management position requiring a proactive approach to problem‑solving and a commitment to excellence. We are looking for an individual who can inspire their team, maintain a positive workplace culture, and uphold our client's reputation for outstanding childcare in **Stellenbosch**. Your leadership will be key to fostering a thriving learning community for young children.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day operations of the childcare centre.
• Lead, manage, mentor, and inspire a team of childcare professionals.
• Ensure the implementation of a high-quality, age-appropriate curriculum and educational programs.
• Maintain compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and licensing requirements.
• Develop and manage the centre's budget, ensuring financial viability.
• Foster positive and effective communication channels with parents, families, and the community.
• Implement and oversee robust health, safety, and hygiene policies and procedures.
• Manage admissions, enrolments, and maintain accurate student records.
• Conduct regular staff performance appraisals and facilitate professional development opportunities.
• Handle parent inquiries, concerns, and complaints in a professional and timely manner.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the centre.
• Ensure the centre environment is welcoming, stimulating, and safe for all children.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development or a related field (e.g., Diploma, Degree).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a childcare setting, with at least 2-3 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood education principles, pedagogy, and curriculum frameworks.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent understanding of relevant legislation and regulatory requirements in **Western Cape**.
• Proficiency in financial management and budgeting.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with staff, parents, and stakeholders.
• Organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain.
• A genuine passion for early childhood education and child welfare.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunity to lead and shape a reputable childcare centre.
• Supportive management structure and collaborative team environment.
• Professional development and ongoing training opportunities.
• Generous annual leave and benefits package.
• A key role within the vibrant **Stellenbosch** community.