Early Childhood Educator - Play-Based Learning Specialist

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing professional development

Competitive salary

Positive work-life balance

Well-resourced facility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a passionate Early Childhood Educator to join its nurturing Pietermaritzburg team in KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on a play-based learning approach for children aged 0-5, creating a safe, stimulating space for exploration and growth.

You will observe development, document progress, and communicate with parents to support each child’s wellbeing and learning journey. We value patience, empathy and teamwork, with opportunities for ongoing professional development and a

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or equivalent.
• Proven experience working with young children (0-5 years) in a childcare or educational setting.
• Deep understanding and practical application of play-based learning methodologies.
• Excellent observation, assessment, and documentation skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine love for working with children.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently.
• Knowledge of child safety protocols and first aid certification is advantageous.
• Residency or ability to commute reliably to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities based on a play-based learning philosophy.
• Observe and assess children's development, documenting progress and identifying individual needs.
• Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration and discovery.
• Maintain open and effective communication with parents/guardians regarding their child's progress and well-being.
• Manage daily routines, including feeding, hygiene, and nap times, ensuring children's comfort and safety.
• Collaborate with other educators and staff to plan and execute special events and programs.
• Uphold the highest standards of childcare practice and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Foster positive social-emotional development, encouraging empathy, cooperation, and self-regulation.

Skills

Play-based learning

Observation skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Empathy

First aid (advantage)

Education

ECD qualification

Equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a passionate and dedicated Early Childhood Educator to join their nurturing environment in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial in fostering a love for learning and development in young children, focusing on a play-based pedagogical approach. The successful candidate will be instrumental in creating a stimulating and safe space where children aged 0-5 can explore, grow, and thrive. This is an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact on the early developmental years of children within the vibrant community of Pietermaritzburg . We are looking for an individual with a profound understanding of child psychology and early learning frameworks, committed to delivering high-quality childcare services. The position requires a proactive and compassionate individual who can contribute positively to the team's collaborative spirit and the overall educational ethos.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities based on a play-based learning philosophy.
• Observe and assess children's development, documenting progress and identifying individual needs.
• Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration and discovery.
• Maintain open and effective communication with parents/guardians regarding their child's progress and well-being.
• Manage daily routines, including feeding, hygiene, and nap times, ensuring children's comfort and safety.
• Collaborate with other educators and staff to plan and execute special events and programs.
• Uphold the highest standards of childcare practice and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Foster positive social-emotional development, encouraging empathy, cooperation, and self-regulation.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or equivalent.
• Proven experience working with young children (0-5 years) in a childcare or educational setting.
• Deep understanding and practical application of play-based learning methodologies.
• Excellent observation, assessment, and documentation skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine love for working with children.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently.
• Knowledge of child safety protocols and first aid certification is advantageous.
• Residency or ability to commute reliably to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

Joining our client's team means becoming part of a supportive and professional community dedicated to excellence in early childhood education. You will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and career progression. The role offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Furthermore, you will enjoy a positive work-life balance, working within a well-resourced facility in a beautiful setting. This is a chance to work in a rewarding field where you can see the direct positive impact of your work every day in the development and happiness of the children entrusted to your care in Pietermaritzburg .