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 1 2026 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:
To download the PD, and to apply for this job go to: & enter ref code: 6801332.
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 0419 691***.
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).