Early Years Educator - Toddler Specialist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Access to well-equipped facilities and

Generous leave and holidays

Pension fund contribution and medical/

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking a passionate Early Years Educator specializing in toddler development (18 months to 3 years). You will design engaging, age-appropriate activities, foster language, motor and social skills, and create a safe, inclusive learning space focused on play-based learning.

Working with a team of dedicated educators, you will observe and document progress, communicate with families, and implement curriculum aligned with developmental milestones.

Qualifications

• Qualified in ECD or related field with relevant diploma.
• 3–5 years of proven toddler experience in a professional childcare setting.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Clear police clearance and child safeguarding knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans for toddlers.
• Ensure safety and well-being of all children, following safety protocols.
• Observe and assess children's progress and communicate with parents.
• Create a warm, organized classroom environment that encourages exploration.
• Manage daily routines including napping, feeding, and hygiene.
• Collaborate with fellow educators to plan events and centre initiatives.
• Maintain open, professional communication with parents and families.

Skills

Strong communication

Observation skills

Team collaboration

Play-based learning

Curriculum development

Education

ECD qualification

Diploma in Grade R Teaching

B.Ed. Foundation Phase

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly reputable early learning center situated in the heart of Bloemfontein, Free State , is seeking a passionate and dedicated Early Years Educator specializing in toddler development. This is a cornerstone position within our nurturing educational environment, focused on providing exceptional care and fostering cognitive, social, and emotional growth for children aged 18 months to 3 years. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in early childhood education, a creative approach to curriculum development, and an unwavering commitment to creating a safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning space. We believe in the power of play-based learning and are looking for an individual who can inspire curiosity and a lifelong love for learning in our youngest learners. This role is integral to our mission of delivering high-quality childcare that supports both the child's development and the needs of their families. The successful applicant will work collaboratively with a team of experienced professionals within a supportive and well-resourced facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that cater to the developmental needs of toddlers, focusing on areas such as language, motor skills, and social interaction.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children in your care at all times, adhering to strict safety protocols and child protection guidelines.
• Observe and assess children's progress, documenting observations and communicating effectively with parents and guardians about their child's development and any concerns.
• Create a warm, stimulating, and organized classroom environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and independence.
• Manage daily routines including napping, feeding, and hygiene, with sensitivity to individual child needs.
• Collaborate with fellow educators and staff to plan and execute special events, parent-teacher meetings, and center-wide initiatives.
• Maintain open and professional communication with parents, providing regular updates on their child's progress and fostering strong home-school partnerships.
• Uphold the center's policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with all educational standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• A recognized qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or a related field (e.g., Diploma in Grade R Teaching, B.Ed. Foundation Phase).
• A minimum of 3-5 years of proven experience working with toddlers in a professional childcare setting.
• In-depth knowledge of toddler development milestones and appropriate pedagogical approaches.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and observational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and execute creative, play-based learning activities.
• A valid First Aid certificate and CPR certification is essential.
• A clear police clearance and a genuine passion for working with young children.
• Ability to work effectively within a team and independently.
• Understanding of child safety regulations and best practices in childcare.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment with dedicated colleagues.
• Access to well-equipped facilities and learning resources.
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
• Potential for career advancement within our growing organization.
• Employee wellness programs and support initiatives.
• Pension fund contribution and medical aid options are available.