Centre Manager/Nominated Supervisor - Croydon (Brand New Centre) in London

Village Early Education is thrilled to be opening a brand-new, purpose-built centre in Croydon, Melbourne, and we are seeking an experienced and passionate Centre Manager / Nominated Supervisor to lead our team from January 2026. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a state-of-the-art early education service from its very foundations, building a culture of excellence, guiding a dedicated team, and creating a warm and empowering environment where children, families, and educators grow together.

As the Centre Manager, you will be instrumental in the successful opening and ongoing leadership of our new Croydon service. You will oversee daily operations, compliance, educational programs, and team culture, ensuring the centre launches smoothly and thrives long-term. Village Early Education is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. We understand our responsibilities and statutory duty of care and are committed to raising awareness about the importance of child safety in our organisation and our communities, which is essential for promoting healthy and safe learning environments for children. We believe in building healthy, thriving communities, where early learning is valued, educators are empowered, and families feel truly supported.

Key Responsibilities

• Centre Operations & Compliance: Oversee all aspects of the centre's operation, ensuring compliance with the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations. You will help set up the service in line with the National Quality Framework (NQF) and work with the team to meet key Quality Areas (QA3, QA6, QA7).
• Leadership & Team Management: Lead a dedicated team of Community Leaders, Administrative Assistant, and support staff, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone can grow together in their roles. You will inspire a shared vision of excellence in early childhood education and create a supportive atmosphere for both staff and children.
• Recruitment & Staffing: Lead recruitment efforts, ensuring the right team is in place. Manage staff development, training, and retention, focusing on creating an engaged and high-performing team.
• Parent Engagement & Occupancy: Drive occupancy by conducting tours of the new facility, converting enquiries into enrolments, and establishing positive relationships with parents. You’ll play a key role in creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere from day one, ensuring that families feel part of the Village Early Education community as they grow together with us.
• Budgeting & Reporting: Manage the service budget, monitor financial performance, and provide reports on occupancy, service performance, and compliance.
• Health, Safety & Risk Management: Establish and implement health and safety protocols in consultation with relevant authorities, ensuring the centre’s physical environment is safe, well-maintained, and compliant.

Key Qualifications & Experience

• Essential Qualifications: Degree in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent), current First Aid, Anaphylaxis, and Emergency Asthma management training, valid Working with Children Check or VIT, and accredited Child Protection Training.
• Experience: A minimum of 3 years in a Nominated Supervisor position or 5 years in a leadership role in early childhood services. Strong understanding of Child Care Subsidy (CCS), KIMs (Kindergarten Compliance), and compliance software is essential.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead teams, manage staff, and implement high-quality curriculum. Demonstrated experience managing budgets, occupancy, and ensuring compliance with the National Quality Framework (NQF).
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, particularly in managing parent relationships, handling complaints, and leading staff.

What We Offer

• A unique community-based leadership structure – designed to foster connection, empowerment and support at every level of the organisation.
• Competitive salary based on experience, qualifications, and performance.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth in a new centre.
• The unique opportunity to be part of a new service from the ground up, contributing to its culture, values, and success, as we grow together.
• Career advancement within a growing and dynamic organisation.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to join a brand-new service and make your mark from the very beginning. If you are an experienced and passionate leader in early childhood education, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and cover letter addressing the key selection criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Join Village Early Education and help us shape the future of early childhood education in Springvale South, where we grow together!