Early Learning Centre Director

Early Learning Centre Director

Tatachilla has a permanent opportunity for a passionate and experienced educator to lead our Early Learning Centre.

Contract Type: Permanent 1.0 FTE, 6 weeks annual leave
Commencing: Term 4 2026 by negotiation

About Tatachilla

Tatachilla Lutheran College is a leading ELC to Year 12 coeducational Christian College, set on 26 hectares of world-class rural beauty. Located in the stunning McLaren Vale, Tatachilla is an easy commute from Adelaide on the Southern Expressway, minutes from the captivating beaches and alluring hinterland of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

The college currently supports a thriving population of more than 1,100 students who receive a rigorous, values-rich education underpinned by intellectual and spiritual growth. Tatachilla is also host to an acclaimed, onsite EcoSanctuary, with endangered Australian Bettongs and Potoroos as part of our focus on stewardship to the planet and sustainability.

Our staff enjoy an enriched and relaxed lifestyle living amongst the area's natural beauty with its pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, and award-winning wineries. 

About the role

The Early Learning Centre Director provides strategic, educational and operational leadership of the Early Learning Centre. The Director is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality early childhood education and care that reflects the College's Christian ethos and educational philosophy. The Director leads the development of a safe, inclusive and engaging learning environment for children, supports families and staff, and ensures compliance with all legislative, regulatory and accreditation requirements including the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations, National Quality Framework and National Quality Standard. The Director promotes continuous improvement across all aspects of the service, providing education leadership, effective management of resources, staff development and strong partnerships with families and the wider community.

Key responsibilities

• Promote and model the Christian ethos and values of the College and ELC

• Ensure compliance with all College policies, procedures and legislative requirements

• Lead implementation of the Early Years Learning Framework and ensure high-quality educational programs

• Support educators in curriculum planning, assessment, documentation and reflective practice

• Supervise, mentor, support and assist to recruit staff in conjunction with Head of HR and the Principal

• Facilitate performance development and review processes

• Ensure compliance with the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations

• Manage risk, workplace health and safety, emergency management and child protection requirements

• Develop positive partnerships with families and communicate effectively regarding children's learning and wellbeing

• Liaise with the Business Director for the ELC budget

About you

• Degree or a 3 or 4 years Early Childhood qualification, or an AQF Advanced Diploma, or a Diploma in Children's Services or holding such qualifications deemed by the employer or relevant legislation to be appropriate or required for the position

• Experience in Early Childhood leadership

• Current South Australian Teacher's Registration

• Tertiary qualification in Early Learning Education

• Current Working with Children Check, RRHAN-EC Certification, National Child Safety Advanced Training (Gecko), Protective Practices Certificate, First Aid Certificate – Provide first aid in an education and care setting

• Experience in staff leadership and performance development

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present professionally and confidently, particularly in a public speaking capacity

• Thorough understanding of the National Quality Framework and National Quality Standard

• Strong knowledge understanding and implementation of compliance, governance and risk management within an Early Learning setting

A detailed description of the role including the selection criteria and the application requirements can be found on the College Website:

https://www.tatachilla.sa.edu.au/careers-at-tatachilla/employment-vacancies

Applicants with sufficient skills and experience are required to:

1. Write a cover letter of up to two pages, addressing the selection criteria;
2. Include a curriculum vitae; and
3. List three referees, one being a pastoral referee

Applications that do not meet the above requirements will not be considered. Please do not apply via seek.

Applications should be addressed to the Principal, Tatachilla Lutheran College and sent electronically to ••••@tatachilla.sa.edu.au

Applications close at 9am, Monday 28 September 2026 with applications considered as they are received.