Join Our Leadership Team as Educational Leader/Program Coordinator & 3IC

Temporary Position | 20 July 2026 – 27 November 2026, Potential for an Ongoing Full-Time Leadership Opportunity from 2027

At EJ Kids' Care, we believe childhood should be filled with belonging, joy, curiosity, and meaningful relationships. Every day, we have the privilege of being part of our children's stories, celebrating their achievements, supporting their challenges, and helping them grow into confident, capable young people.

We are currently seeking a passionate and experienced Educational Leader & Third in Charge (3IC) to join our leadership team in a temporary capacity from 20 July 2026 to 27 November 2026, with the potential for a permanent full-time leadership position from 2027 for the right person.

This is not a "fill-in" role! This is an opportunity to become an integral part of a service that genuinely values children, families, and educators. The successful applicant will have a direct impact on our community through mentoring staff, leading educational practice, supporting children's wellbeing and development, and helping shape the future direction of our service.

EJ Kids' Care is proudly operated by the Eagle Junction State School Parents and Citizens Association and is licensed for 270 children. We are a large, vibrant Exceeding Rated Outside School Hours Care service where strong relationships, high-quality practice, and a deep sense of community sit at the heart of everything we do.

As our Educational Leader and Third in Charge (3IC), you will work alongside our Service Manager and Assistant Service Managers to support the day-to-day leadership of the service while continuing to build meaningful relationships with children, families, and educators.

What Our Team Says:

“I have worked in the early childhood industry for over 20 years and have found this Service to be the best I have been employed at. The Service is run efficiently with staff knowing the roles/areas they will be in every day. Inclusion is quite evident at the Service and all families are warmly welcomed.” – Fran, Educator.

“EJ Kid's Care is the best workplace I have ever worked in. The workplace is the most healthy, positive, supportive and collaborative workplace I have ever been a part of. The team are all incredibly welcoming and have the kid's and other staff members best interests at heart. I love coming to work every day and everyday I know my team has my back.” – Beth, Educator.

“I have loved working at EJ Kids’ Care as the team have been nothing but welcoming and inclusive. There is always somebody willing to answer my questions and point me in the right direction!" – Katie, Educator.

“I’ve been here for nine years. Working with the kids and staff, I can’t think of anywhere else I’d rather work. My favourite part is getting to know the kids through all the different activities I get to do. We have a good group of staff!” – Rachel, Educator.

Why You'll Love Working With Us

We know that exceptional programs are built by exceptional people, and we invest heavily in our team. When you join EJ Kids' Care, you'll become part of a leadership team that genuinely supports one another and celebrates each other's successes. We believe in developing leaders, nurturing talent, and creating opportunities for growth.

We offer:

• Extensive professional development opportunities, with training costs fully funded and attendance paid.

• Leadership mentoring and coaching from an experienced management team.

• Paid team-building events, professional networking opportunities, and staff wellbeing initiatives.

• Opportunities to lead service-wide projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

• A collaborative and supportive workplace culture where your ideas are valued.

• Meaningful opportunities to influence children's experiences and outcomes.

• The chance to progress into an ongoing full-time leadership position from 2027.

About the Role

As Educational Leader and 3IC, you will play a key role in guiding educational practice across the service while supporting the operational leadership of the program.

This role offers a unique opportunity for an Educational Leader who is looking to expand their leadership experience. The successful applicant will be trained and supported as a Responsible Person and Supervisor in Charge, becoming part of our Service's Responsible Person leadership team and contributing to the day-to-day management and operation of the Service.

You will be responsible for:

• Leading the development, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of our educational program in line with My Time, Our Place (MTOP), the National Quality Framework, and our Service Philosophy.

• Mentoring, coaching, and supporting educators to build confidence and capability in their practice.

• Guiding educators through the planning cycle, critical reflection processes, and documentation requirements.

• Supporting educators to undertake meaningful observations, learning stories, and reflective practice.

• Leading conversations around children's wellbeing, engagement, inclusion, and development.

• Supporting staff in dynamic risk assessment and promoting a culture of thoughtful decision-making, child safety, and active supervision.

• Working alongside the leadership team to drive continuous improvement initiatives and quality outcomes.

• Coordinating educational resources, program planning, incursions, excursions, and special events.

• Supporting inclusive practices and celebrating the diverse cultures, identities, and experiences within our community.

• Working alongside the Service Manager, Assistant Service Managers, Inclusion Coordinator, and wider leadership team to support staff development and quality improvement goals.

• Undertaking Responsible Person and Supervisor in Charge duties as required, supporting the day-to-day leadership, management, and operation of the Service.

• Acting as a positive role model and leader for both children and educators.

• Participating in Before School Care, After School Care, and Vacation Care sessions as part of the leadership team.

• You will have your own desk in our open plan office!

About You

We're looking for someone who genuinely loves working with children and believes in the power of positive relationships. You are someone who:

• Is passionate about educational leadership and mentoring others.

• Has a strong understanding of child development, play-based learning, and the OSHC sector.

• Can inspire educators to reflect, grow, and continuously improve their practice.

• Values collaboration, kindness, and authenticity.

• Has excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Demonstrates initiative, professionalism, and strong organisational skills.

• Wants to make a genuine difference in the lives of children, families, and fellow educators.

• Is excited by the opportunity to grow as a leader and contribute to the ongoing success of the Service.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Hold or be actively working towards an ACECQA-approved qualification.

• Hold a current Paid Queensland Blue Card (Working with Children Check) or equivalent registration.

• Be 18 years of age or older.

• Hold, or be willing to complete, the Foundations of Child Safety Training.

• Previous leadership, mentoring, Educational Leader, or OSHC leadership experience will be highly regarded.

At EJ Kids' Care, we know that great services are built by great people. We are passionate about creating a workplace where staff feel valued, supported, challenged, and empowered to grow.

We adore our children, value our families, and are incredibly proud of the team culture we have built together. If you are looking for a role where you can make a genuine impact, build meaningful relationships, and be part of a leadership team that truly cares, we would love to hear from you.

Salary

Up to $40.71 per hour (based on leadership experience and qualifications), $80k annual salary + superannuation.

Hours are on a rotating roster (covering Before School Care, After School Care, and Vacation Care shifts as required) with primarily block shifts.

Applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples will be highly considered.

Please note: Only those candidates successful in obtaining an interview will be contacted.