Early Childhood Development Facilitator - Play-Based Learning

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an enthusiastic Early Childhood Development Facilitator for our client’s Nelspruit campus in Mpumalanga. The role focuses on creating a nurturing, play-based learning environment where young children can thrive and develop holistically.

The ideal candidate will plan developmentally appropriate activities, observe progress, and foster social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth while maintaining strong communication with parents and staff.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Early Childhood Development (NQF Level 4 or higher).
• At least 3 years' experience with young children in an ECD setting.
• Knowledge of child development theories and play-based learning.
• Strong classroom management and a positive learning environment.
• Excellent communication with children, parents, and staff.
• Understanding of child protection policies; First Aid is an advantage.
• Willingness to work in the Nelspruit area and adapt to school schedules.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based learning activities.
• Observe and assess individual children's progress, identifying strengths and needs.
• Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Foster social-emotional development through positive interactions and guidance.
• Communicate effectively with parents regarding development and progress.
• Prepare and maintain daily lesson plans, learning materials, and portfolios.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and hygiene standards in the classroom.
• Collaborate with colleagues to develop and improve the ECD curriculum and program offerings.
• Promote a love of learning and curiosity in children.
• Organize and facilitate age-appropriate excursions and events.

Skills

Play-based learning

Classroom management

Observation & assessment

Communication with parents

Child development theories

Education

ECD qualification

First Aid certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive educational institution committed to fostering holistic child development, is seeking an enthusiastic and skilled Early Childhood Development (ECD) Facilitator for their Nelspruit, Mpumalanga campus. This role is central to creating a stimulating and nurturing learning environment where young children can thrive through play-based learning methodologies. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of child development stages, creative pedagogical approaches, and a passion for early education. You will be responsible for planning and implementing age-appropriate activities, observing and assessing children's progress, and fostering their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. This position requires patience, creativity, excellent communication with both children and parents, and a strong commitment to child safety and well-being within the Nelspruit community. The successful applicant will play a key role in shaping young minds and laying the foundation for lifelong learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based learning activities for young children.
• Observe and assess individual children's progress, identifying areas of strength and potential need.
• Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration and curiosity.
• Foster children's social-emotional development through positive interactions, guidance, and conflict resolution.
• Communicate effectively and build positive relationships with parents and guardians regarding their child's development and progress.
• Prepare and maintain daily lesson plans, learning materials, and child portfolios.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and hygiene standards within the classroom and school premises in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
• Collaborate with colleagues and management to develop and improve the ECD curriculum and program offerings.
• Promote a love of learning and encourage children's natural curiosity and creativity.
• Organize and facilitate age-appropriate excursions and special events for the children.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development (e.g., NQF Level 4 or higher).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with young children in an ECD setting.
• Strong knowledge of child development theories and play-based learning methodologies.
• Excellent classroom management skills and ability to create a positive learning atmosphere.
• Creative, patient, and energetic personality with a genuine love for children.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, able to connect with children, parents, and staff.
• Ability to observe, assess, and document children's developmental progress.
• Understanding of child protection policies and procedures.
• First Aid certification is an advantage.
• Willingness to work within the Nelspruit, Mpumalanga area and adapt to school schedules.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development through workshops and further training in early childhood education are provided.
• This role offers immense personal satisfaction by contributing to the foundational learning and development of young children in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
• Employees receive annual leave and access to wellness initiatives.
• The institution provides a supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities to engage with innovative pedagogical approaches are present.
• A contribution towards medical aid is offered.
• This is a rewarding position for dedicated educators in Nelspruit.