Senior Early Years Educator & Play-Based Learning Specialist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 280,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid annual leave

Sick leave

Professional development

Supportive team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Early Years Educator & Play-Based Learning Specialist to lead a classroom of 3- to 5-year-olds in Mossel Bay. You will drive a play-based curriculum, mentor junior staff, and contribute to the center’s educational philosophy.

The role requires strong knowledge of child development, safety, and reporting to parents. The ideal candidate has at least 5 years of experience, including leadership, with First Aid/CPR certification and a commitment to ongoing

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years as an Early Years Educator, with at least 2 years in a senior/leadership role.
• Proven expertise in play-based learning methodologies and curriculum design.
• Strong understanding of preschool child development principles.
• First Aid and CPR certification is essential.
• Willingness to undergo a comprehensive background check and ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum for children aged 3-5 years.
• Create a engaging, safe classroom environment that promotes exploration and learning.
• Observe and assess children's progress, documenting observations and providing regular feedback to parents.
• Lead and mentor a team of early years educators, providing guidance and support.
• Foster positive social-emotional development, encouraging cooperation, empathy, and self-regulation.
• Manage classroom routines, transitions, and behavior effectively.
• Communicate professionally and empathetically with parents regarding development and well-being.
• Collaborate with colleagues and management to enhance the center's educational programs.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Organize and facilitate parent-teacher conferences and special events.

Skills

Play-based learning

Curriculum design

Leadership

Observation & assessment

Communication

First Aid

Education

Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

Job description

About the Role

An esteemed early learning center in the picturesque town of Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Senior Early Years Educator & Play-Based Learning Specialist . This vital role involves leading a classroom of young children (ages 3-5), fostering their holistic development through engaging, play-based learning experiences. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of child psychology, curriculum development, and effective classroom management techniques. You will be responsible for creating a stimulating, safe, and nurturing environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and social-emotional growth. As a senior member of the team, you will also mentor junior educators and contribute to the overall educational philosophy of the center. This is a full-time, on-site position dedicated to making a significant impact on the foundational years of children's education in Mossel Bay.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and implement a developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum for children aged 3-5 years.
• Create an engaging, stimulating, and safe classroom environment that promotes exploration and learning.
• Observe and assess children's progress, documenting observations and providing regular feedback to parents.
• Lead and mentor a team of early years educators, providing guidance and support.
• Foster positive social-emotional development, encouraging cooperation, empathy, and self-regulation.
• Manage classroom routines, transitions, and behavior effectively.
• Communicate professionally and empathetically with parents regarding their child's development and well-being.
• Collaborate with colleagues and management to enhance the center's educational programs.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Organize and facilitate parent-teacher conferences and special events.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Early Years Educator, with at least 2 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Proven expertise in play-based learning methodologies and curriculum design.
• Strong understanding of child development principles for preschoolers.
• Excellent classroom management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and inspire a team of educators.
• First Aid and CPR certification is essential.
• Must be passionate, creative, and dedicated to early childhood education.
• Willingness to undergo a comprehensive background check.
• Commitment to continuous professional development.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary of ZAR.
• Opportunity to work within a respected early learning center in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA.
• Generous paid annual leave and sick leave provisions.
• Professional development opportunities and workshops.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment with a focus on quality education.