Assistant Early Childhood Educator - Orchard Road Community ELC

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

Want to be part of a supportive, friendly and experienced team in a not-for-profit organisation that values kindness, warmth and fun? 

About Y Whittlesea

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 Orchard Road Early Learning Centre here (copy link into your browser): (https://childrensprograms.whittlesea.ymca.org.au/early-learning/orchard-road-community-early-learning-centre/)

What’s the opportunity?

We’re on the lookout for an enthusiastic educator to join our dedicated and supportive team at Orchard Road Community & Early Learning Centre in Doreen. You’ll enjoy an above ratio role where you will be supporting an experienced and friendly team. As an assistant educator, you'll work collaboratively with the full-time Room Leader and fellow educators to support the delivery of high-quality education and care.

This is a Full-Time ongoing opportunity. The role may also offer flexibility for a monthly RDO arrangement where operationally suitable.

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

Why Join Us?

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. Some of the other benefits we offer include:

• Staff Benefits:
  • Enjoy generous staff childcare discounts.
  • Over-award pay rates and benefits

• Up to 3 bonus leave days over Christmas.

• Professional Growth:

• • Strong focus on professional development and personal growth.
• Optimal Learning Environment:
  • Maintain an over-ratio of educators in all rooms.
  • Benefit from small group sizes for effective teaching.
  • Modern, purpose-built community hub
• Work-Life Balance:
  • Ample non-contact time.
  • Generous budget for resources to enhance your teaching environment.
• Supportive Team:
  • Work with a supportive Educational Leader and Management team.

What you'll bring

• Established experience as an Educator.
• Certificate III in Children Services or Diploma in Children Services (or equivalent) .
• A passion for inspiring young minds and a playful spirit.
• Fresh ideas and be able to share stories on how you embody the spirit of fun, creativity, and warmth. 
• Legal right to live and work in Australia.
• Working with Children Check and Police Check (International Police check if you have lived outside Australia in the last 5 years).
• Current First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis and Asthma quals.
• Valid Child Safety Training (GECCKO) and Child Protection training module certificates in line with regulatory requirements.
• Reliability, flexibility and a willingness to take initiative.

How to 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. Click the "Apply Now" button to submit your application.

Have a question before applying? Reach out to Rosa Condello, Centre Director, on 1300 153 332. Or you can email us at recruitment@ywhittlesea.org.au. (Please apply via the website, not by email).

Applications close date: 26 November 2026

We encourage you to apply early. Screening and interviews may start before the closing date, and the ad may close early if we find the right person.

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.