Lead Child Development Specialist

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid contributions

Paid annual leave

Opportunities for professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking a Lead Child Development Specialist to guide the educational journey of children aged 0-5. You will lead a team of educators, implement enriching curricula, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance throughout the centre.

You will mentor staff, assess progress, engage with families, and plan engaging activities across arts, play, and learning. This role demands passion for child welfare and strong leadership in a dynamic setting.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• 3-5 years in childcare with 1-2 years in leadership.
• Knowledge of child development theories and best practices.
• First Aid and CPR certification is essential.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate educational programs and curricula.
• Oversee daily operations of the childcare center, ensuring safety and hygiene.
• Supervise and mentor a team of childcare educators, providing development opportunities.
• Assess children's progress and maintain records, communicating with parents/guardians.
• Plan and facilitate activities including games, art, music, and outdoor play.
• Manage classroom behavior and tailor support to individual needs.
• Ensure compliance with childcare regulations and health and safety standards.
• Collaborate with families to build partnerships and open communication.
• Order and manage educational supplies for planned activities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Education

Diploma or Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier early childhood education provider in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA, is seeking a dedicated and inspiring Lead Child Development Specialist. This is a pivotal role focused on fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment where young children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. You will be instrumental in shaping the educational journey of children aged 0-5, implementing innovative teaching methodologies, and upholding the highest standards of childcare. This position requires a passionate individual committed to child welfare and development, with a strong understanding of early childhood pedagogies. The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the community and make a tangible difference in the lives of young learners. We are looking for a proactive leader who can inspire a team and create a positive, engaging atmosphere for both children and staff in our vibrant East London, Eastern Cape, ZA facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement age-appropriate educational programs and curricula aligned with early childhood development best practices.
• Oversee daily operations of the childcare center, ensuring a safe, hygienic, and stimulating environment for all children.
• Supervise, mentor, and support a team of childcare educators, providing ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Conduct regular assessments of children's progress and development, maintaining detailed records and communicating effectively with parents/guardians.
• Plan and facilitate engaging age-appropriate activities including educational games, art, music, and outdoor play.
• Manage classroom behavior positively and constructively, addressing any individual needs with sensitivity and expertise.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant childcare regulations, licensing requirements, and health and safety standards.
• Collaborate with parents and families to build strong partnerships, fostering open communication about their child's learning and well-being.
• Order and manage educational supplies and resources, ensuring availability for planned activities.

Requirements

• Minimum of a Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Proven experience (minimum 3-5 years) in a childcare setting, with at least 1-2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of child development theories and best practices in early childhood education.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• First Aid and CPR certification is essential.
• A genuine passion for working with young children and commitment to their holistic development.
• Ability to manage time effectively, multitask, and prioritize tasks in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic administrative duties.
• A clear criminal record check and relevant professional references.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Medical aid contributions.
• Paid annual leave.
• Opportunities for continuous professional growth and development.

You will be part of a supportive and collaborative team dedicated to excellence in childcare. The role is based in a conveniently located facility in East London, Eastern Cape, ZA , offering a rewarding career path with significant impact.