Lead Toddler Caregiver

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional growth

Supportive environment

Learning materials

Generous annual leave

Prime Sandton location

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, ZA, seeks an experienced Lead Toddler Caregiver for children aged 1–3 years. You will lead a small team, oversee daily routines, and implement a play-based curriculum that supports cognitive, social, and physical development in a safe, nurturing environment.

The role requires an ECE qualification (NQF Level 5 or equivalent), at least 3 years of toddler experience, leadership ability, strong communication, First Aid/CPR, and the ability to pass a background

Qualifications

• Qualification in Early Childhood Education (NQF Level 5 or equivalent).
• Minimum 3 years' experience with toddlers in a childcare setting.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of toddler development and best practices in early childhood education.
• First Aid and CPR certification; background check required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a toddler classroom, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
• Develop and implement age-appropriate daily lesson plans and activities.
• Oversee daily routines (feeding, napping, diapering/toileting, hygiene).
• Observe and document children's progress, needs, and behaviours, communicating with parents.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating classroom environment; ensure materials are safe.
• Foster positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Mentor and guide assistant caregivers in the toddler room.
• Adhere to centre policies, procedures, and licensing regulations.
• Respond promptly and compassionately to the needs of all children.
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.

Skills

Toddler development

Leadership

Curriculum planning

Communication

Patience & warmth

Education

Diploma/Certificate in Early Childhood Education

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded early learning centre in the affluent area of Sandton, Gauteng, ZA , is seeking an experienced and nurturing Lead Toddler Caregiver. This position is crucial in providing a safe, stimulating, and responsive environment for toddlers aged 1-3 years. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of toddler development, a passion for creating engaging play-based learning experiences, and the ability to lead a small team of caregivers. You will be responsible for overseeing daily routines, curriculum implementation, and maintaining exceptional standards of care and hygiene. The centre is committed to fostering a child-centered approach and supporting the professional growth of its staff. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant contribution to the early development of young children in Sandton.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a toddler classroom, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
• Develop and implement age-appropriate daily lesson plans and activities that foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Oversee the daily routines of toddlers, including feeding, napping, diapering/toileting, and hygiene practices.
• Observe and document children's progress, needs, and behaviours, communicating effectively with parents.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and stimulating classroom environment, ensuring all materials are safe and accessible.
• Foster positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• Mentor and guide assistant caregivers in the toddler room.
• Adhere to all centre policies, procedures, and licensing regulations.
• Respond promptly and compassionately to the needs of all children.
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.

Requirements

• Relevant qualification in Early Childhood Education (e.g., NQF Level 5 or equivalent).
• Minimum of 3 years' experience working with toddlers in a childcare setting.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience is highly desirable.
• Comprehensive knowledge of toddler development and best practices in early childhood education.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to create engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
• Patience, warmth, and a genuine love for working with young children.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Sandton, Gauteng, ZA area.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment within a reputable centre.
• Access to excellent resources and learning materials.
• The chance to make a lasting positive impact on children's early years.
• Generous paid annual leave and other statutory benefits.
• Prime location in Sandton with good accessibility.