Early Childhood Educator (Assistant or Qualified) - Diggers Rest

Are you a passionate Educator eager to make a positive difference in the lives of young learners?

Like the sound of working with a friendly and supportive team as part of a not-for-profit organisation with strong community values?

Look no further than Diggers Rest Early Learning Centre!

About the Y?

Y Whittlesea is a not-for-profit that happens to be the oldest youth organisation in the world and oldest social enterprise, where all profits go back into our communities. Our Early Learning spaces are vibrant environments where little imaginations thrive, fostering laughter, creativity, and friendship. Join us in building a close-knit community that inspires young minds through play and learning. Find out more about Diggers Rest Early Learning Centre here:

https://childrensprograms.whittlesea.ymca.org.au/early-learning/diggers-rest-early-learning-centre/

We’re proud to be a participating employer in the Education Care Workers Retention Payment Scheme, supporting the recognition and retention of dedicated professionals in the childcare sector.

What’s the opportunity?

We’re seeking an assistant or qualified educator to join our dedicated, experienced and friendly team at Diggers Rest Early Learning Centre. You'll support the implementation of high-quality, play-based educational programs that align with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).

Some of your key duties will include:

• Assist in creating a warm, inclusive, and nurturing environment that fosters children’s wellbeing, learning, and development.
• Collaborate effectively with Lead Educators and team members to maintain a safe, engaging, and stimulating learning space.
• Contribute to daily routines, including meals, rest periods, and transitions, ensuring a calm and consistent environment for children.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues, promoting open communication and trust.
• Ensure compliance with all centre policies and National Quality Standards (NQS), maintaining health, hygiene, and safety practices.

This is a Full-time opportunity, with shifts ranging from 6:30am – 6:30pm Monday-Friday. You’ll be rostered as part of a four-week rotation and partnered with a fellow educator. There is potential to negotiate an RDO arrangement of 8 hours per day with one paid rostered day off per month.

For more information about the role, check out the position description (copy link into browser): https://ymac.worldmanager.com/go/VPgFxv

Why Join Us?

• Above award wages as a participating employer in the Education Care Workers Retention Payment Scheme.
• Enjoy staff childcare discounts of 50% if you need to bring your child to care.
• Be part of a friendly, supportive team culture.
• Not-for-profit organisation with a strong community focus. 
• Free gym membership (Y Leisure City, Epping).
• Strong focus on professional development and personal growth.

What do we hope you'll bring?

• Legal right to live and work in Australia.
• Certificate III in Children Services or Diploma in Children Services (or equivalent).
• Professional experience as an educator will be highly regarded (Just starting out? We’d still love to hear from you).  
• Employee Working with Children Check.
• Police Check dated in the last 6 months (International Police check if you have lived outside Australia more than 3 months in the last 5 years).
• Current Nationally Recognised qualifications in First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis and Asthma.
• A passion for inspiring young minds and a playful spirit.

Ok, I'm in. How do I apply?

If you're excited to explore this opportunity, take the time to stand out. Submit your resume, answer a few questions on our application form, and if possible, send us a cover letter highlighting your greatness – your time to shine! Click the "Apply Now" button to submit your application.

Have a question before applying? Reach out to Mikhaila Lawson, Centre Director, on 03 9740 0394. Or you can email questions to recruitment@ywhittlesea.org.au (All applications are managed through our online portal. To ensure your application is considered, please apply via the job ad and not by email.)

Applications close date: 11th February 2026

Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as screening and interviews may commence prior to the closing date.

Here’s what our teams say about working at the Y (https://youtu.be/FuLVNN6R5xA)

Safeguarding at the Y

At the Y, we are committed to empowering all Children and Young People to feel safe and be safe, at the Y, in their families and in their communities. As such, we ensure that all of our candidates are appropriately screened (including police checks) to make sure that the right people are in the right roles.

To learn more about our screening processes, click here to view our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy (copy link into your browser):

https://ymca.org.au/about-us/safeguarding-children-young-people/safeguardingresources/

The Y is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the safeguarding of children and young people.