Child Development Specialist – Cool4School

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, part of the Save the Children Australia Group and a global movement dedicated to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. The organization operates across every state and territory in Australia, providing quality services to children and their caregivers, including in remote areas and capital cities. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons is committed to making a significant impact in the lives of children and families.

Job Overview:
The Child Development Specialist position is a part-time role (15.2 hours per week) based at Smithton Primary School in Circular Head, Tasmania. This maximum-term role will conclude on 30 June 202

• The primary focus of this position is to support primary school-aged children in enhancing their self-regulation skills and improving their engagement in education through the Cool4School program. The specialist will facilitate child-focused activities aimed at fostering emotional and social development, empowering children to understand and manage their emotions, and strengthening their connection to education. Additionally, the role involves collecting and recording data for accountability and reporting purposes, ensuring that the program's impact is effectively evaluated.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Child Development Specialist include:

• Supporting children to engage positively in their educational environment.
• Facilitating activities that promote emotional and social development among primary school-aged children.
• Empowering children to understand and manage their emotions within the school setting.
• Strengthening children's connection to education through targeted interventions.
• Collecting, recording, and analyzing data for program evaluation and reporting.
• Collaborating with teachers and caregivers to create a supportive learning environment.
• Implementing trauma-informed practices in interactions with children.
• Staying informed about best practices in early intervention, child protection, and related fields.
• Participating in professional development and training opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess demonstrated skills, knowledge, and experience working with primary school-aged children. A strong understanding of relevant Federal and State child protection legislation is essential. Experience in using trauma-informed practices is required, along with a solid understanding of best practices in early intervention, child protection, domestic and family violence, and early childhood education. Candidates should also have a degree or diploma in Children’s Services or an equivalent qualification, or significant relevant experience in the field.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree or diploma in Children’s Services or a related field. Alternatively, significant relevant experience in child development and education may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications. Continuous professional development and training in child protection and trauma-informed practices are also highly valued.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience working with primary school-aged children, particularly in educational or developmental settings. Experience in implementing programs that support emotional and social development is crucial, as is familiarity with trauma-informed practices and child protection legislation. Candidates should demonstrate a history of effectively engaging with children and facilitating their learning and development.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with children, caregivers, and colleagues. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time position with a maximum-term contract ending on 30 June 202

• The role is based in Smithton, Tasmania, and offers an award rate salary (currently Level 4.1 at $44.58 per hour) along with access to full PBI salary packaging benefits. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates. Employees are required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check, and must adhere to the Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct. The organization is committed to providing a safe working environment and offers support for workplace wellness, including access to a confidential Employee Wellbeing Program.