Happy Hippo Kindergarten and Childcare is seeking an accomplished and caring Kindergarten Teacher to lead an inclusive, play-based school readiness program for children aged 3-5 years. This is an influential teaching and leadership role for an educator who combines strong early years pedagogy with warm relationships, sound judgement and a genuine commitment to every child’s right to be safe, respected and heard.
As an Approved Early Childhood Teacher under the National Quality Framework, you will shape curriculum, guide educators and work closely with families, schools and support services to help children thrive and transition confidently to school.
- Design, lead and evaluate a developmentally appropriate kindergarten curriculum aligned with the EYLF V2.0, VEYLDF and National Quality Standard.
- Embed intentional teaching, inquiry-based learning and rich environments that build literacy, numeracy, STEM, physical development and emotional regulation.
- Lead the curriculum planning cycle, document children’s progress and complete Transition Learning and Development Statements in line with Department guidance.
- Mentor educators through coaching, feedback, curriculum meetings and reflective professional dialogue.
- Build trusted partnerships with families and coordinate welcoming orientation and transition-to-school experiences.
- Maintain safe, inclusive and well-organised learning environments, accurate records and strong compliance practices.
- Contribute to audits, assessment and rating readiness, quality improvement and positive community partnerships.
- A Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, or equivalent qualification approved by ACECQA.
- Current full registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT).
- Current First Aid, CPR, Asthma and Anaphylaxis certifications.
- Current Child Protection and Mandatory Reporting training, updated annually.
- Advanced working knowledge of the EYLF, VEYLDF, NQS, National Law and Regulations, and Victorian Child Safe Standards.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor educators with professionalism, empathy and purpose.
- Excellent communication, organisation, observation and documentation skills, with a reflective and growth-oriented approach.
- Experience leading a funded kindergarten program or school transition project.
- Confidence using digital planning and family communication platforms such as Storypark or 1Place.
- Experience working with inclusion support, allied health or early intervention agencies.
You’ll have the opportunity to lead meaningful curriculum, influence practice across the teaching team and develop strong partnerships with families and the local community. Your work will directly support children’s learning, wellbeing, inclusion and readiness for school within a service committed to quality improvement and child-safe practice.
If you are ready to bring thoughtful educational leadership, strong relationships and high-quality practice to Happy Hippo, please apply through SEEK with your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience leading a kindergarten program.
