Early Years Educator & Play Facilitator

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 134,000 - 201,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is helping a Midrand-based early childhood development center recruit an enthusiastic Early Years Educator & Play Facilitator. You will design and deliver play-based learning activities for children aged 18 months to 5 years, fostering curiosity, social-emotional growth and a safe, nurturing environment.

The role requires an ECD qualification (NQF 4/5), excellent communication and organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and with a team.

Qualifications

• ECD qualification (NQF 4/5) or equivalent is required.
• Experience with 18 months to 5 years in an educational setting is required.
• Strong understanding of child development theories and pedagogical approaches.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Police clearance certificate is mandatory; First Aid certification is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver age-appropriate play-based activities and lesson plans.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment.
• Observe, assess and document children's progress; provide feedback to parents.
• Foster positive social interactions and emotional development.
• Ensure the health and safety protocols are followed.
• Collaborate with fellow educators to plan school events and parent-teacher meetings.
• Maintain open communication with parents regarding development and concerns.
• Prepare learning materials and keep the classroom tidy and organized.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Play-based learning

First Aid

Education

ECD qualification (NQF 4/5)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable early childhood development center in **Midrand, Gauteng**, is seeking a passionate and experienced Early Years Educator & Play Facilitator to join their dedicated team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a nurturing and stimulating environment where young minds can thrive. The role involves crafting and implementing engaging educational programs tailored to the developmental needs of children aged 18 months to 5 years. You will play a pivotal role in fostering a love for learning, encouraging social-emotional growth, and ensuring the safety and well-being of every child under your care. The position offers a blend of on-site engagement and flexible administrative tasks, allowing for a dynamic work-life balance. We are looking for an individual with a profound understanding of child psychology and pedagogical best practices, who is eager to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and their families in the **Midrand** community. This role requires creativity, patience, and a genuine commitment to early childhood education.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver age-appropriate educational activities and lesson plans, focusing on play-based learning.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment for all children.
• Observe, assess, and document children's progress, providing constructive feedback to parents and guardians.
• Foster positive social interactions and emotional development among children.
• Ensure the physical well-being of children, including adherence to health and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with fellow educators and staff to plan and execute school events and parent-teacher meetings.
• Maintain open and effective communication with parents regarding their child's development and any concerns.
• Prepare learning materials and ensure the classroom is tidy and well-organized.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training sessions.
• Contribute to the overall positive culture and ethos of the early learning center.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or equivalent (e.g., NQF Level 4/5).
• Proven experience working with young children (18 months to 5 years) in an educational setting.
• Strong understanding of child development theories and pedagogical approaches.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to plan and execute engaging, play-based learning activities.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for working with children.
• First Aid certification is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of the South African early childhood curriculum frameworks.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• A police clearance certificate is mandatory.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive environment.
• Access to ongoing training and workshops.
• A collaborative and inspiring work atmosphere.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the lives of young children in **Gauteng**.
• Contribution to retirement fund.
• Paid leave days in accordance with company policy.
• Regular team-building activities.