Director - Early Learning and Care Centre

• Be part of a new chapter guided by fresh leadership, a renewed vision for growth
• Enjoy the stability of a well-established not-for-profit with fresh energy
• Drive change in a service supporting families and children's evolving needs

At CatholicCare, we believe every individual deserves to feel safe, respected and valued — and our team brings this vision to life every day. Our staff are more than employees; they're the foundation of our mission and the heart of our service. This is more than just a role — it's a meaningful opportunity to contribute to a growing organisation with a strong social purpose. By joining CatholicCare, you become part of a dedicated team shaping brighter futures for children and making a lasting impact in their lives.

About the role:

The Waitara Early Learning and Care Centre is a purpose-built, 67-place long day care preschool located beside Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Primary School. We offer a nurturing environment and engaging learning experiences for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years.

As Centre Director, you will lead the delivery of high-quality care and education, ensuring compliance with the Education and Care Services National Regulations and Law, the National Quality Framework, and the Early Years Learning Framework. You'll uphold the Child Safe Standards and foster a culture of reflective practice and continuous improvement.

You'll be supported by a Practice Manager and administration assistant to run a smooth and efficient operation. A key part of your role will be to build and inspire a team of early learning professionals, while developing strong, authentic relationships with children, families, and the wider school community.

Days: Monday to Friday

Hours: 40 hrs per week (rotation between opening 7:30 am and closing 6:00 pm)

Rate: CSA Level 6 + Above Award Salary + Super + Directors Allowance + Salary Sacrifice + RDO

Responsibilities include:

• Oversee the provision of high-quality care and education for all children in attendance ensuring compliance with the Education and Care Services National Regulations and Law, National Quality Framework and Early Years Learning Framework.
• Understand the Child Safe Standards expectations.
• Build, inspire and encourage a talented team of early learning professionals, sharing your knowledge and contributing to a culture of reflective practice and ongoing improvement.
• Step in to maintain seamless service during team breaks and contribute actively on the floor when required.
• Be empowered to run an efficient and smooth operation with the support of the administration assistant and the Practice Manager.
• Develop trusting and authentic relationships with children, families, and the school.

You'll need:

• A bachelor's in early childhood education with a teaching proficient accreditation status.
• Experience in a teaching and team leadership role within an early childhood program.
• Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk certificate.
• Hold a current First Aid and CPR Certificate including Asthma and Anaphylaxis training.
• Have a Food Supervisor certificate or willing to undertake this, as per regulatory requirements.
• To have effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Employee Working with Children Check.
• Knowledge of Start Strong Funding, High Support Learning Needs Funding, and Inclusion Support.

Why Join CatholicCare?

• Salary Packaging – Reduce your taxable income and increase your take-home pay.
• A sign on bonus of $1,000 (conditions apply $250 on commencement and $750 at the end of probation).
• Fitness Passport program – enjoy discounted memberships at a wide range of gyms and fitness facilities across Australia.
• Training & Development – Ongoing learning opportunities to grow your career.
• Employee Assistance Program – Free, confidential counselling and support.
• Bupa Health Discounts – Discounted membership fees.
• Extra Leave – Additional paid leave day over Christmas.
• Hope Awards – Be recognised and celebrated for your impact.
• Baby Bonus – Paid bonus for eligible primary carer

About us:

At CatholicCare, we understand the importance of children getting off to a good start in happy, creative and supportive environments that provide opportunities for children to explore, make friends, build on their strengths and get any extra help they need to set them on a positive learning journey.

CatholicCare is a safe, inclusive, and respectful employer. We value the unique perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and are committed to working alongside First Nations communities.

We strongly encourage First Nations people to apply. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, genders, faiths and diversity.

Create a centre where children thrive — your next chapter begins here.