Job Description

The Role

Kooinda are looking for an experienced, motivated, and passionate early childhood teacher to lead our team. We need a mentor, who is thrives on continuous improvement, innovative pedagogy and reflective practice.

This is a permanent, full time position working 8 hours per day, Monday-Friday You will receive a generous director's allowance and accrue a paid monthly rostered day off each and every month!

If that sounds like you, Join KU and take the next step in your career!

The Service

Kooinda Workbase Child Care Centre is a welcoming, purpose-built 56-place long day care nestled in the leafy bushland of the University of Newcastle campus. Meaning “a happy place” in Awabakal, Kooinda fosters community, nature connection, and a passionate team, many with KU experience spanning 5 to 20 years.

Children explore a large yard with cubbies, climbing frames, and mud kitchens, enjoying outdoor adventures and sustainability-focused activities using natural, upcycled materials.

Staff enjoy a bright, peaceful break room and are encouraged to bring their own interests into the classroom. Easily accessible by public transport or car, Kooinda offers a supportive, creative environment where children and educators thrive.

Experience the KU Difference

KU offers more benefits than any other employer in the sector, including:

• Sector leading pay rates, up to 25% above the Award,
• Generous annual pay increases,
• Discounted Childcare Fees
• 5 additional personal leave days for service-based staff,
• 12 rostered days off per year, in addition to 4 weeks of annual leave
• Up to 15 weeks of KU fully paid parental leave on top of government provisions
• Access to variety of salary packaging options,
• Study assistance and support with ECT accreditation,
• 94% of staff say we live our values,
• KU Plus an extensive Employee benefits program with access to discounts/cashback from 400+ retailers
• Blue Light discount card
• KU focuses on wholistic staff wellness through its Health & Wellbeing portal,
• Access to extensive free professional learning,
• An inclusive culture with a shared vision,
• Well-resourced and environmentally responsible workplaces,

• Coaching and mentoring from experienced colleagues.

Of course, you will need:

• Australian working rights
• A current NSW Working with Children Check
• An ACECQA recognised Early Childhood Teaching degree
• Completed Child Protection Training as well as demonstrated understanding of current child safe practices
• Current First Aid and CPR certificates along with current separate approved Asthma and Anaphylaxis Management certificates
• NESA Teacher Accreditation
• Sound understanding of the Education and Care Services National Law (2010) and the Education and Care Services National Regulations (2011)
• Working knowledge of the Early Years Learning Frameworks (EYLF)

How to apply:

Please submit your updated Cover Letter and CV via the 'APPLY NOW' button.

Want to know more?

Contact Sarah , HR Partner via 02 9268 3959 or careers@ku.com.au ( please note: applications are not accepted via this email).

KU is committed to social justice and human rights, inclusion and diversity, and equal employment opportunity. We recognise the voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and promote their participation at KU.

KU Children’s Services is committed to being a child safe organisation. We put children’s safety and wellbeing at the centre of our practices. Child safety is a shared responsibility across the organisation. All KU staff contribute to maintaining our child safe culture and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the children in our services and programs. KU has a zero tolerance of harm or abuse of children.

• Lead and manage the Kooinda Child Care Centre, overseeing daily operations and ensuring a high-quality early learning environment.
• Develop and implement educational programs that align with KU Children's Services' vision and meet the developmental needs of children.
• Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities to the centre's staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.
• Build strong relationships with families, engaging them in their child's learning journey and providing effective communication and support.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and maintain a safe and healthy environment for children and staff.
• Collaborate with other KU centres and workbases to share best practices and contribute to the organization's overall success.
• Manage centre resources effectively, including budgeting, staffing, and maintaining a positive work environment.
• Stay updated with industry trends and research, incorporating innovative practices into the centre's curriculum.
• Conduct regular observations and assessments of children's progress, using data to inform and enhance teaching practices.
• Promote a culture of inclusivity and diversity, creating an environment where every child feels valued and respected.

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development theories and best practices.
• Excellent leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful educational programs.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with families and staff.
• Proficiency in using educational technologies and data-driven decision-making tools.
• Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to a positive team dynamic.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of the centre and its community.
• Current first aid and CPR certification, as well as a valid working with children check.