Childcare Centre Manager

Childcare Centre Manager | Bendigo South

Make your mark in your local community while leading a passionate, well-supported team. Journey Early Learning is looking for an experienced and values-driven Centre Manager to lead our Bendigo South team.

This is a rare opportunity to join a well-established centre, empower a dedicated team of educators, and lead with purpose—right here in your own backyard.

Centre Overview:

Our 96-place centre is loved for its strong sense of community, long-standing educators, and thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor environments. With a large central kitchen that brings children and families together, our space is built for connection and belonging.

Families describe us as warm, welcoming, and "like home" and we're looking for a leader who will continue that legacy.

About the role:

As Centre Manager, you'll oversee the daily operations of the centre while championing a culture of quality, safety, and genuine care. You'll have autonomy, visible leadership support, and access to resources that set you and your team up for success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the overall performance and daily operations of the centre, including occupancy, budgeting, staffing, and compliance
• Support, mentor, and guide your team to maintain high-quality educational and care practices
• Build strong, respectful relationships with children, families, and the wider community
• Ensure adherence to the National Quality Framework, regulations, and Journey standards
• Foster a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all children
• Drive continuous improvement and reflect on centre practices regularly
• Advocate for the rights and wellbeing of every child in your care

About you?

You're a confident, compassionate leader who thrives on mentoring others and creating environments where children and educators flourish. You bring clarity, calm, and a strong understanding of quality early education.

Key Requirements

• Experience in a leadership role within Early Childhood Education
• An ACECQA approved Diploma or Bachelor's qualification
• A comprehensive understanding of the NQF and relevant legislation
• A strong commitment to the wellbeing and development of children
• Current Working with Children Check, First Aid, CPR, Asthma and Anaphylaxis certifications
• A values-led approach aligned with Journey's vision and culture

Why Journey?

At Journey Early Learning, we believe great leadership is built on trust, growth, and genuine connection. You'll be supported by a network of passionate early childhood professionals who are here to see you succeed.

We recognise and celebrate the unique strengths each team member brings to their role. In return, we provide meaningful opportunities to grow, feel empowered, and truly love where you work.

Here's what you can look forward to:

• 80% off Childcare Discounts*
• $1000 Sign on Bonus*
• Attractive Bonus & Incentive Scheme
• Paid birthday leave, and anniversary gifts & recognition awards
• Access to Journey Academy, leadership development, and targeted PD
• A values-led culture, visible senior leaders, and real pathways for progression
• Employee Assistance Program
• High-quality resources and environments
• Core values that we live and breathe

*Terms and conditions apply.

If you believe you have the skills and experience to be part of our team's success – apply now

Join us at Journey Early Learning…where it all begins.

At Journey Early Learning, the safety and well-being of every child is our top priority. We ensure every child every day is safe, secure and protected. We are united through Journey's Commitment to Safeguarding Children and adhere to our See, Act, Tell framework. This framework empowers us to actively uphold and advocate for the rights and voices of children, focusing on the prevention, recognition, and response to abuse, neglect, and harm.