Center Manager

2 days ago

Preston, Victoria, Australia The Learning Space Early Education and Care Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

Centre Manager – The Learning Space Preston

Full-Time Leadership Opportunity

"Please come to help with playing" – Miss A, 3

Our children have spoken—and they'd love to welcome some new "big people" to The Learning Space team

We're offering an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and passionate professional to step into a leadership role as Centre Manager at our purpose-built, 68-place Long Day Care Centre in Preston, which opened in January 2023.

As Centre Manager, you will:

  • Oversee day-to-day operations across four rooms
  • Mentor and support a passionate team of educators
  • Build strong, meaningful relationships with children, families, and the wider community
  • Lead with heart, humour, and professionalism

Or in the words of our children:

If you're "nice and really kind" (Master S, 5), "taller than me with arms that reach the sky" (Master R, 3), and love to "play jumping and cars and roads" (Miss S, 4), then this might just be your dream job

Why join The Learning Space?

We're locally owned and operated, and we pride ourselves on valuing our educators. Our Coburg centre was recently rated Exceeding the National Quality Standard—and we're building the same culture at our new Preston centre.

At The Learning Space:

  • We practice what we preach
  • We prioritise time for collaboration and critical reflection
  • We offer ongoing professional development and embrace a research-based approach
  • We work alongside Kelly Goodsir (KG Learning) for coaching and curriculum mentoring
What we're looking for:

You are a strong, inspiring leader who brings energy, empathy, and organisation to every day. You are experienced in navigating the complexity of centre operations and know how to build strong teams and deliver exceptional programs.

Essential criteria:

  • Early childhood qualification (Bachelor or experienced Diploma)
  • Previous experience as a Centre Director in a large service
  • Minimum of 2+ years of experience as a Centre Director is required
  • Experience managing a large service with 60+ children is essential
  • Strong understanding of EYLF, NQS, WH&S, and A&R
  • Excellent leadership, time management, and admin skills
  • Experience with rostering, staff management, and funding
  • Strong verbal and written communication
  • Current First Aid, CPR, Asthma & Anaphylaxis certification
  • Valid WWCC, Police Check, and Child Protection training
  • Experience with an inquiry-based learning model (preferred)
  • Permanent residency in Australia is required

What's in it for you?

  • Above-award wages, generous incentives, and childcare discounts
  • Access to industry-leading training and in-centre support
  • A supportive and progressive leadership team
  • A beautifully resourced environment that reflects our values
  • A chance to lead a centre working toward Exceeding the NQS
Our Commitment to Child Safety:

We prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all children, with a strong focus on the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. We are committed to meaningful engagement with Aboriginal culture and uphold the Child Safe Standards in all aspects of our practice.


If you're ready to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact on our children and community—we'd love to hear from you. Please include a cover letter with your application.

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