Lead Early Childhood Educator & Program Developer

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Professional development

Wellness programs

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Early Childhood Educator for our client in Johannesburg to oversee daily operations, curriculum development, and staff management for ages 0–5. You will lead teaching teams, ensure high-quality learning experiences, and uphold safety and regulatory standards in a nurturing environment.

The ideal candidate has a relevant ECE qualification, at least five years in the field with two in leadership, strong collaboration skills, and a proven track record in program

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Early Childhood Education or pedagogy.
• Minimum 5 years in early childhood education, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in curriculum development and program design for young children.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate curriculum and programs.
• Supervise and mentor a team of educators; foster collaboration.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Ensure health, safety, and well-being of all children with safety protocols.
• Manage daily center operations, scheduling, resources, and administration.
• Build positive relationships with parents and communicate progress.

Skills

Curriculum development

Leadership

Staff mentorship

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

First Aid certification

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prestigious early childhood development center in Johannesburg, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Early Childhood Educator. This pivotal role involves overseeing daily operations, curriculum development, and staff management, ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational programs for children aged 0-5 years. You will be instrumental in fostering a nurturing, stimulating, and safe environment that promotes holistic child development. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on young lives and contribute to a renowned institution. The successful candidate will embody our client's commitment to excellence in early years education and childcare services within the Johannesburg community, ensuring adherence to all educational standards and regulations. We are looking for a leader who is passionate about child development and possesses exceptional interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with children, parents, and staff members, creating a cohesive and supportive learning atmosphere.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and evaluate age-appropriate curriculum and educational programs in line with early childhood development best practices.
• Supervise, mentor, and support a team of early childhood educators, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to staff to enhance teaching methodologies and professional growth.
• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children through strict adherence to safety protocols and maintaining a secure learning space.
• Manage daily center operations, including scheduling, resource allocation, and administrative tasks, ensuring efficiency and compliance.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with parents, communicating regularly about their child's progress and center activities.
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and workshops to foster family engagement in the child's educational journey.
• Oversee the maintenance and organization of classroom materials and learning environments, ensuring they are stimulating and conducive to learning.
• Uphold the center's policies and procedures, as well as all relevant government regulations and licensing requirements for childcare facilities in Johannesburg.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Early Childhood Education, Pedagogy, or a related field (e.g., Bachelor's degree or equivalent).
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in early childhood education, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated experience in curriculum development and program design for young children.
• Strong understanding of child development theories and practical application in a childcare setting.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
• Proficiency in administrative tasks and experience with childcare management software is advantageous.
• A valid South African police clearance certificate and relevant certifications (e.g., First Aid) are mandatory.
• Passion for fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for all children.
• Knowledge of educational standards specific to South Africa and the Gauteng province.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Additionally, employees benefit from generous paid time off, opportunities for professional development and continuous learning, a supportive and collaborative work environment, and the profound satisfaction of contributing to the foundational years of children's lives in Johannesburg.
• This role also provides the chance to shape educational strategies and lead a dedicated team within a respected organization dedicated to nurturing the next generation.
• Access to wellness programs and potential for career advancement within the organization are also key advantages of this position.