Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioner

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a passionate Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioner to join our Soweto team. The role centers on creating a stimulating, nurturing environment for children aged 0–5 and implementing developmentally appropriate programs.

Responsibilities include observing progress, communicating with parents, ensuring safety, collaborating with staff, and maintaining an inclusive classroom. Applicants should have an ECD qualification (NQF 4/5) and strong child-development knowledge.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or equivalent (NQF 4/5).
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with parents and colleagues.
• Patience and nurturing disposition for young children.
• Ability to manage a classroom environment and ensure safety.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement age-appropriate activities for children ages 0–5.
• Create a safe, inclusive learning environment.
• Observe and document children's progress across development domains.
• Engage with families to discuss development and learning.
• Follow health, safety and hygiene standards in the center.
• Collaborate with other staff for a cohesive ECD approach.
• Prepare learning materials and manage classroom resources.
• Support holistic development and well-being of each child.

Skills

Communication skills

Patience

Nurturing

Classroom management

Education

ECD qualification (NQF 4/5)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a passionate and nurturing Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioner to join their dedicated team in Soweto, Gauteng . This role is central to providing a stimulating and supportive environment for young children during their formative years. The ECD Practitioner will be responsible for implementing age-appropriate educational programs, fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in their care. The ideal candidate will have a genuine love for children, a strong understanding of early childhood pedagogy, and excellent communication skills to engage effectively with both children and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities and lessons for young children (ages 0-5).
• Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environment that promotes exploration and discovery.
• Observe and assess children's progress in various developmental domains, documenting observations accurately.
• Foster positive social interactions, emotional regulation, and self-help skills among children.
• Communicate regularly and effectively with parents/guardians regarding their child's development and learning.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and hygiene standards within the ECD center.
• Collaborate with other ECD practitioners and staff to ensure a cohesive approach to early childhood education.
• Manage classroom resources and prepare learning materials.
• Support the overall well‑being and holistic development of each child.

Requirements

• A recognized qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or equivalent (e.g., NQF Level 4 or 5 in ECD).
• Current registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) is advantageous.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with young children in an ECD setting.
• Sound knowledge of child development principles and the ECD curriculum framework.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Patience, creativity, and a nurturing disposition.
• Ability to manage a classroom environment effectively and ensure child safety.
• A passion for early childhood education and a commitment to making a difference.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including opportunities for professional development and training in the ECD field. This position provides a chance to make a meaningful contribution to the early development of children in the Soweto, Gauteng community. Join a supportive team dedicated to providing high-quality early learning experiences and fostering the potential of every child.