Child Development Worker – Play2Learn

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organisation, proudly part of the Save the Children Australia Group and global movement. Established to ensure that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity, 54 reasons has been operational for over 30 years. The organization focuses on providing quality services to children and their caregivers across every state and territory in Australia, including remote areas and capital cities. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, the organization values diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexuality, cultures, and beliefs, fostering an inclusive environment where all employees can feel supported and valued.

Job Overview:
The Child Development Worker for the Play2Learn program will play a crucial role in supporting young children in Katherine, Australia, to develop their social skills, independence, and capacity to learn. This full-time max term position, lasting until July 2027, involves coordinating the planning, implementation, and review of culturally appropriate developmental play and learning experiences for children aged 0-6 years. The successful candidate will work closely with families to encourage their engagement with support programs and services, identify and address the physical, social/emotional, and educational needs of children, and provide necessary support and information to parents regarding developmental issues. The role also includes monitoring processes, collecting data, and reporting on program effectiveness. The position requires a proactive approach to building relationships with families from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, ensuring that the child's voice remains at the center of all activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plan and facilitate weekly playgroup sessions for children aged 0-6 years.
• Develop creative strategies to encourage family engagement with support programs and services.
• Identify and address the physical, social/emotional, and educational needs of children.
• Provide support and information to parents regarding developmental issues and make appropriate referrals to health, education, and welfare agencies.
• Monitor processes, collect data, and report on program effectiveness.
• Collaborate with the Play2Learn team and report to the Team Leader.
• Work across various locations within the Katherine Township boundaries as required.
• Maintain a culturally sensitive approach in all interactions with children and families.

Required Qualifications:

• Qualification in Early Childhood Education preferred (minimum Certificate III is strongly preferred) or significant equivalent experience.
• Experience working with children aged 0-6 years and families in a group setting.
• Knowledge and understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework.
• Prior experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or CALD communities is preferred.
• Competency in the use of Microsoft Office programs and ability to use databases.

Educational Background:
Candidates are expected to have a qualification in Early Childhood Education, with a minimum of a Certificate III being strongly preferred. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively support the developmental needs of young children and their families.

Experience:
The position requires experience working with children aged 0-6 years and their families in a group setting. Candidates should have a solid understanding of early childhood development principles and practices, as well as experience in implementing educational programs that cater to diverse cultural backgrounds. Prior experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or CALD communities is highly desirable, as it will enhance the candidate's ability to connect with and support families from these backgrounds.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication with children and families. Additionally, knowledge of Aboriginal languages or other community languages would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better engagement with families from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time max term role until July 2027, with an option for a permanent part-time role (3 days a week). The working hours for the part-time role are Monday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, Tuesday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, and Friday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. The organization offers an award rate salary (currently Level 3.1 - $40.49 per hour) plus full salary packaging benefits. Employees also receive a generous annual remote location allowance, flight benefits, and five weeks of annual leave. Health and wellbeing support, including Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and professional supervision, is provided, along with individual learning plans to assist in career development. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees can bring their whole selves to work.