Lead Educator
Lead Educators will plan and deliver educational programs aligned with current curriculum outcomes. They’ll follow up with other Educators and Teachers to ensure that programs are working as intended and adjust based on children’s engagement and feedback from their team. As a leader in the room, they’ll lead by example and showcase the expectations for Educators and Teachers in the childcare centre.
The Lead Educator in Childcare
Lead Educators are an essential part of any childcare centre. At Guardian Childcare and Education, our Lead Educators will set the tone of their learning space and ensure all other team members are mentored using appropriate techniques for high-quality early childhood education.
What is a Lead Educator?
A Lead Educator has the role of inspiring other Educators and Teachers working in the childcare centre. They’ll need a solid understanding of the current National Quality Framework (NQF) and Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). They’ll work with other education team members in the centre to ensure they are developing play-based learning activities that deliver the desired outcomes.
Lead Educator responsibilities include leading through example, and they will set up new environments to provide the children with valuable learning spaces. They’ll play an essential role in the education of children attending the childcare centre and foster strong bonds with their team members, children and families. A Lead Educator can problem-solve and take care of any matters as they arise in the centre.
Lead Educator Responsibilities
Lead Educators in childcare are also called Room Leaders. They are childcare professionals passionate about delivering quality educational programs to children in their care. A leader will work to provide an example to others. They are highly skilled and will develop positive relationships with their children, families, and team.
Lead Educator responsibilities include leading a team of educators with focus on individual development and mentoring in the education, care, and supervision of each child at the Centre. In an early childhood setting, the Lead Educator works collaboratively with Educators, children, and families to plan and implement an effective ongoing cycle of planning, documenting and evaluation in accordance with the National Quality Framework and the Guardian Curriculum
Lead Educators will have a hand in mentoring other team members and assisting them in their career progression. a Lead Educator will be responsible for communicating the learning plan to other Educators and preparing adjustments based on constructive feedback. Other duties to be completed by Lead Educators will include:
- Leads a team with a focus on development and mentoring.
- Works collaboratively to plan, document, and evaluate learning programs.
- Ensures the program aligns with Guardian’s values and curriculum, and is accessible for family input.
- Incorporates the knowledge, culture, and interests of children and educators into activities.
- Builds strong relationships with families and supports children during key moments.
- Engages with children, fostering learning through teaching strategies, play, and documentation.
- Uses positive guidance for behaviour and ensures children’s safety and wellbeing.
- Encourages children’s independence in daily routines and ensures appropriate attire.
- Maintains a safe, clean environment and manages any risks.
- Provides first aid when necessary and follows all safety procedures.
- Mentors Educators to ensure high-quality educational practices.
Read more about why work with Guardian
How can I become a good Lead Educator?
Learning about a Lead Educator’s responsibilities can help to show you if the position is a right fit for your personality and education levels. A Lead Educator’s responsibilities can change depending on how a room is organised, and you may be leading one or more Educators while ensuring your room is operating effectively. Lead Educators must be adaptable and able to manage tasks throughout the day quickly. To become a Lead Educator, you will need:
- A recognised Certificate III or higher in Early Childhood Education and Care
- A current Working with Children Check
- First Aid, Anaphylaxis, and Asthma certificates
As a good Lead Educator, you should also have the following qualities:
- Leadership skills: Able to lead by example and effectively mentor other team members.
- Organisational skills: Can plan and implement educational programs while managing daily tasks.
- Communication skills: Able to communicate effectively with team members, children, and families.
- Adaptability: Can adapt to changes in routines or situations and keep
How do I apply for a Lead Educator role in childcare?
Our Lead Educators at Guardian will have a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and have or are currently studying for their Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
When you work with Guardian Childcare and Education, you’ll receive a competitive salary, industry recognition and other rewards, including:
- Access to the Guardian Degree Program, where we’ll support you during any studying you choose to complete through flexible working hours, paid study, and reimbursement of course fees (terms and conditions apply).
- Access to the WHEREFIT program, where you’ll receive 2,000 discounted corporate offers, such as up to 50% off gym memberships, activewear purchases, beauty products, healthy meals, and more.
- Paid first-aid certificates and renewal courses to ensure you’re up to date with all current first-aid requirements
- Childcare discounts (subject to availability)
If you’re qualified and have experience working in early childhood education and childcare, you’re encouraged to apply for any open positions at Guardian. All current vacancies are listed on this page, and you can apply directly through our website. When you work at Guardian Childcare and Education, you’ll be in a modern and well-resourced early childhood centre where you can access a highly skilled network of Educators. Apply today!