Service Lead

• Be part of our innovative and game changing early years services
• Full Time fixed term role in a dynamic and purposeful organisation
• Lead teacher until end of Term 4 at Clyde Township - Service lead for Orana and Clyde Township from Term until end of Term 4 2026

About us

With a proud history and a progressive mindset, Kids First is a leading provider of educational, family and support services for children and families in Melbourne. We are at the forefront of responding to community needs and strengthening families so that children can thrive. Our programs are evidence-based and built on more than 120 years of service.

About the role/Opportunity

We are looking for an exceptional Early Childhood Leader to continue bringing our education and care model to life. You will oversee the operational aspects of the kindergarten as the Nominated Supervisor and Educational Leader. This leadership role includes a teaching allocation

Your responsibilities would include:

• Responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the kindergartens
• Mentoring and coaching of the teaching teams
• Provide a high-quality program of education and care based on strengths, dispositions, skills and interests of the children which will evolve from observations, feedback from parents, the inclusion of the broader community and other written records
• Ensuring the program adheres to the agreed centre philosophy, the Kids First purpose, values and vision, VEYLDF, EYLDF V2.0, NQS, Child Safe standards, as well as the Code of Conduct.
• Monitoring of quality and compliance and adhering to Kids First policies and procedures
• Working collaboratively with the families, children, community stakeholders and networks
• Support the implementation of the Kids First early years model - full training provided
• Partaking in Kids First Lead Teacher networks and communities of practice

To be successful in this role you will need:

• Proven ability to work in a cohesive team environment.
• Comprehensive understanding of child development (3-6 years old)
• Experience in working in partnership with other services and agencies
• Demonstrate personal values aligned with Kids First organisational values
• Proven skill and experience in working in an early education and care setting
• Sound knowledge of Early Childhood legislation, policy, reforms and frameworks
• Experience in providing leadership, management, mentoring and coaching
• Sound knowledge of QIP, compliance and SRF requirements
• Positive mindset, problem solving skills, good communication, conflict resolution and innovation
• Ideally, hold a 3-4 bachelor's degree, as recognized by ACECQA, and have a minimum of 5 years leadership experience

As a member of the Kids First team, you will:

• Be part of a collaborative and outcomes focused culture of an independent, not-for-profit organisation that has a legacy of more than 120 years community service
• Take home an attractive salary with the option to salary package to increase take home pay
• Have access to flexible work options and our staff wellbeing program

To apply:

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Applications close 11 September 2025

Please include a Cover letter outlining the position title and response addressing the selection criteria & a copy of the Curriculum Vitae which must list two professional referees.

For inquiries about the position connect with, Lisa Starvaggi-Herbert, Area Lead on

Kids First is an Equal Opportunity employer that respects and values diversity and inclusion. Kids First welcomes everyone to apply, regardless of age, ethnicity, cultural background, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, and physical ability.

Kids First is a Child Safe Organisation, employment is conditional on satisfactory referee checks, a current Working with Children Check, National Criminal History check, proof of the right to work in Australia and a pre-employment medical (if applicable).