Centre Director

Leadership and Management Opportunity at Ballykin ELC Cromer

Position: Centre Director - Contract Role - Full time (5 days)

Location: Cromer, Northern Beaches, Sydney

Website: 

Start Date: Start November including 4 week Induction and Mentoring Period

Contract: 12 month contract with potential to extend beyond

Ballykin ELC Cromer, an Exceeding 59 place early learning centre, is looking for a passionate and experienced leader to join our team in a Leadership and Management role Centre Director/Nominated Supervisor role. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who aligns with our philosophy of high-quality early childhood education, has a strong understanding and knowledge of compliance, and is invested in leading a small, close-knit team in a supportive, family-oriented environment.

At Ballykin, we believe in fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging environment where every child's individuality is celebrated. Our "Exceeding" Cromer service reflects our commitment to providing the highest standard of education and care. We pride ourselves on our small, family-oriented atmosphere, where educators and families work closely together to build a genuine sense of community.

Set within a beautiful natural environment, Ballykin ELC Cromer promotes a strong focus on outdoor education, offering children daily opportunities to explore, play, and learn in nature. Outdoor learning is central to our educational philosophy, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong respect for the environment.

In this Centre Director role, you'll oversee the day-to-day operations of the centre, support regulatory compliance, and mentor a team of passionate educators. You'll be hands-on, actively engaged in classroom projects and educational programs, supporting meaningful learning experiences and building strong relationships across the centre.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and support a team of educators in alignment with Ballykin's educational philosophy.
• Ensure compliance with the National Quality Framework (NQF) and relevant regulations.
• Oversee operational aspects of the centre including staffing, resourcing, and administration. Part time administration support is provided.
• Work collaboratively with educators in the classroom, contributing to planning and delivering educational programs and projects.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive team environment that prioritises professional development.
• Promote and participate in outdoor learning, encouraging rich connections with the natural environment.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with children, families, and the broader Ballykin community.

You are an experienced and motivated leader with a deep understanding of early childhood education and a passion for nurturing both children and educators. You will:

• Hold a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (or equivalent).
• Have prior leadership or management experience in an early childhood setting.
• Possess a strong understanding and knowledge of compliance, quality standards, and relevant frameworks.
• Knowledgeable in CCS systems, rostering, budgeting and financial management of centre
• Be hands-on, enthusiastic, and engaged in educational practice and classroom collaboration.
• Be passionate about outdoor learning and nature-based experiences.
• Demonstrate excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.
• Be committed to mentoring others and fostering a collaborative professional culture.

• Competitive salary - inclusive of paid lunch break and accrual of rostered day off each month
• A supportive, family-oriented, and Exceeding rated learning environment.
• Ongoing professional development and opportunities for leadership growth.
• A beautiful natural setting that encourages outdoor learning and exploration.
• A meaningful opportunity to make a lasting impact on children, families, and the Cromer community.

If you're excited about leading a team in a centre that values outdoor education, hands-on leadership, compliance, and a collaborative culture, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your experience, approach, and alignment with our values to

For more about Ballykin and our philosophy, visit