Lead Educator - Inclusive Early Childhood Development

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Leadership opportunity

Supportive team

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Educator to champion inclusive early childhood development at our Stellenbosch center.

You will design inclusive curricula, mentor staff, collaborate with parents and specialists, and ensure a nurturing, diverse learning environment that supports all children and respects their unique needs.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in ECE or Special Education.
• 5+ years in early childhood education with leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of inclusive educational strategies.
• Experience developing IEPs.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the inclusive curriculum design for diverse learners.
• Guide educators on inclusive pedagogy and differentiation.
• Conduct observations and develop individualized education plans.
• Collaborate with parents, therapists, and specialists.
• Mentor staff on inclusive education and behavior management.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming classroom promoting belonging.
• Stay current with research and best practices in inclusive ECE.
• Oversee resources for inclusive materials and support services.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion at the center.

Skills

Inclusive education leadership

Staff mentoring

Curriculum design

Assessment & IEPs

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or Special Education

Tools

IEP development tools

Observation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and dedicated Lead Educator to champion inclusive early childhood development practices at their vibrant center in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role requires a visionary leader passionate about creating equitable and supportive learning environments for all children, including those with diverse needs. You will be responsible for developing and implementing inclusive educational strategies, mentoring staff, and collaborating with parents and external professionals. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of various learning needs, excellent leadership capabilities, and a commitment to fostering a nurturing community. This is a significant leadership opportunity in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, to drive best practices in inclusive education.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of an inclusive curriculum that caters to the diverse needs of all children.
• Provide expert guidance and support to educators on inclusive pedagogy and differentiation strategies.
• Conduct child observations and assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs) where necessary.
• Collaborate with parents, therapists, and other specialists to ensure comprehensive support for each child.
• Mentor and train staff on best practices in inclusive education and positive behavior management.
• Maintain a safe, stimulating, and welcoming classroom environment that promotes belonging for all children.
• Stay current with research and best practices in inclusive early childhood education.
• Oversee resource allocation for inclusive learning materials and support services.
• Promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the center.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or equivalent in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role focusing on inclusion.
• In-depth knowledge of child development, learning differences, and inclusive educational strategies.
• Experience in developing and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and team-building skills.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with relevant legislation and policies pertaining to inclusive education.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Must be based in or able to commute to Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in inclusive practices.
• Be a leader in a forward-thinking educational setting in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Supportive management and a collaborative team.
• Make a lasting difference in the lives of children with diverse needs.