Preschool Centre Leader

Job Description

Hess Preschool is seeking a qualified and experienced Preschool Principal to lead our centre. The ideal candidate is forward-thinking, innovative, and people-oriented, with a strong commitment to excellence in early childhood education.

Key Responsibilities

1. Centre Leadership & Operations

• Lead and inspire a dedicated team of educators
• Oversee daily operations and ensure smooth functioning of the centre
• Lead strategic planning, centre development, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Manage enrolment, staffing, scheduling, and overall centre performance

2. Child Safety, Health & Well-being

• Establish and maintain a child-safe environment
• Ensure implementation of health, hygiene, and safety procedures
• Supervise staff to ensure appropriate child management practices
• Investigate and report incidents to ECDA when required

3. Curriculum & Pedagogical Leadership

• Guide teachers in lesson planning, pedagogy, and child development practices
• Monitor teaching quality and classroom environments
• Promote holistic development (cognitive, social, emotional, and physical)

4. Staff Management & Professional Development

• Recruit, supervise, and evaluate teaching and non-teaching staff
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities
• Ensure staff meet ECDA qualification and certification requirements
• Foster a positive and collaborative work culture

5. Parent & Community Engagement

• Build strong partnerships with parents and families
• Communicate children's progress and address concerns effectively
• Promote community involvement and organise centre events
• Strengthen family engagement initiatives

6. Compliance & Governance

• Ensure the centre meets all ECDA licensing, audit, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate documentation, records, and reports
• Prepare for ECDA inspections and audits
• Implement policies aligned with government regulations and Code of Practice

7. Financial & Resource Management

• Manage centre budget, resources, and procurement
• Ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining quality standards
• Oversee facilities, equipment, and learning materials

Requirements

Qualifications

• ECDA-certified L2 (Level 2)

• Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education – Leadership (DECCE-L)

• OR Diploma in Preschool Education – Leadership (DPL)

Experience

• Minimum 5-8 years of leadership experience in a preschool setting

• Strong understanding of early childhood development and best practices

• Experience with ECDA compliance, audits, and licensing requirements

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to lead, mentor, and motivate a diverse team

• Comfortable with digitalisation and technology in education

• Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities

• Knowledge of budget management and resource allocation

Personal Attributes

• Forward-thinking — embraces change and plans for the future

• Innovative — brings fresh ideas and creative solutions

• People-oriented — genuinely cares about children, staff, and families

• Empathetic and approachable

• Resilient and solutions-focused under pressure

• Detail-oriented with high standards

What We Offer

• Supportive and collaborative work environment

• Professional development and growth opportunities

• Remuneration will be determined based on experience

How to Apply

If you are forward-thinking, innovative, and people-oriented, and ready to lead with vision and heart, we invite you to apply.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter.

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.