Director

The Chinese Australian Early Childhood Centre (CAECC) is seeking an experienced Centre Director to lead our bilingual early childhood service.

We provide high-quality education and care, promoting the learning of the Mandarin language, and fostering understanding of Chinese culture.

The successful candidate will lead a team of dedicated educators, maintain our centre's exceeding ACECQA rating, and continue our tradition of excellence in early childhood education. This is an opportunity to shape the future of one of Canberra's leading bilingual education services.

The centre is operated by the Association for Learning Mandarin in Australia, a not-for-profit organisation of volunteers and parents. We believe that our Centre Director should work collaboratively with the Committee and with parents to ensure a community-focused approach and open communication.

Founded in 1984, the CAECC has a rich tradition of community engagement, including our annual concert and regular cultural events. Our longstanding and dedicated team of educators create a supportive environment where children learn in a bilingual setting.

Essential Qualifications and Attributes

  1. Early Childhood Teacher (ECT) qualification Bachelor or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care or equivalent qualification as recognised by ACECQA
  2. Minimum of 3 years' experience in a leadership role within early childhood education
  3. A current Working with Vulnerable People registration, or willingness to obtain registration
  4. First Aid Certificate, including training in asthma and anaphylaxis

Key responsibilities:

  1. Oversee and manage the centre's programs, systems, and operational processes to ensure its effective operation.
  2. Ensure the centre operates within Education and Care National Law and Regulations, as well as our own policies and procedures.
  3. Manage budgeting, staffing, and compliance.
  4. Ensure reporting requirements are managed and completed in a timely manner.
  5. Apply knowledge of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the National Quality Standard (NQS) to maintain our “exceeding” rating.
  6. Provide support, guidance and mentoring to our dedicated team of educators.
  7. Managing and guiding staff with their professional development, and their individual goals and performance with the performance management framework.
  8. Ensure rosters are completed in an organised manner.
  9. Build and maintain relationships with families, staff, ALMA and the community.
  10. Support curriculum development and implementation.
  11. Complete ad hoc duties as required by the committee.
  12. Promote the centre to the wider community.

Highly Desirable Qualifications and Attributes

  1. Previous experience as a Centre Director or similar leadership role, with exceptional knowledge and experience in leading a team of professional staff.
  2. Fluency in Mandarin or previous demonstrated experience in bilingual childcare or education.
  3. An understanding of Chinese culture and its integration into early childhood education.
  4. The ability to develop effective and positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
  5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  6. Solid understanding of policies, procedures and regulations.

Key Benefits We Offer

  1. Excellent salary depending on experience, up to $120,000 + super depending on experience and qualifications
  2. Generous leave entitlements including four weeks annual leave plus additional leave during Christmas and New year shutdown.
  3. Free onsite parking
  4. Discounted childcare fees and priority placement for your children
  5. Professional development and paid Work Health and Safety Training including First Aid and CPR
  6. An open and supportive working environment with very supportive community of parents
  7. Opportunity to work with a fantastic not-for-profit organization and lead a longstanding established bilingual early childhood education program in Canberra ready for fresh perspectives on the educational program.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a centre with a 40-year legacy of excellence. The successful candidate will have the chance to build upon our centre's legacy while bringing fresh perspectives to our educational programs.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter addressing your suitability for the role. For more information about this position, please contact Annette Chemin at director@caecc.act.edu.au.  Applications close 6 March 2025

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