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 a global movement dedicated to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. Established to support children's rights, the organization has been operational for over 30 years, providing quality services to children and their caregivers across every state and territory, including remote areas and capital cities. With a workforce of approximately 600 employees, 54 reasons embraces diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexuality, cultures, and beliefs, recognizing that it takes all types of people to fulfill its mission effectively.

Job Overview:
The Child Development Worker position is part of the Play2Learn program, which focuses on providing quality early childhood education to young children in Katherine, Australia. This part-time role, operating from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm Monday to Friday, is a maximum term position until June 30, 202

• The primary function of this role is to coordinate 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 foster engagement with support programs and services, ensuring that children develop essential social skills and a love for learning that will facilitate a smooth transition into school. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying and addressing the physical, social/emotional, and educational needs of children, as well as providing support and information to parents regarding developmental issues and making appropriate referrals to other agencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Child Development Worker include planning and facilitating weekly playgroup sessions, finding creative ways to encourage family engagement with support programs, identifying and addressing the developmental needs of children, providing support and information to parents, and making referrals to health, education, and welfare agencies as necessary. Additionally, the worker will be responsible for monitoring processes, collecting data, and reporting on program outcomes. The role requires collaboration with the Play2Learn team and reporting to the Team Leader, while also working across various locations within the Katherine Township boundaries as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a qualification in Early Childhood Education, with a minimum of Certificate III being strongly preferred. Alternatively, significant equivalent experience in early childhood programs will be considered. The role requires experience working with children aged 0-6 years and their families in a group setting, as well as knowledge and understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework. Prior experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or CALD communities is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and the ability to use databases are also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a qualification in Early Childhood Education, with a minimum of Certificate III being strongly preferred. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding child development principles and implementing effective early childhood education practices.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have experience working with children aged 0-6 years and their families in a group setting. This experience is vital for effectively engaging with children and understanding their developmental needs. Additionally, prior experience working with diverse communities, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and/or CALD communities, is preferred, as it enhances the worker's ability to connect with families from various backgrounds.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for communication with children and families. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those spoken within the local community, would be considered an asset and beneficial for engaging with families from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Additional Notes:
This position is part-time, with working hours from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday to Friday. It is a maximum term role until June 30, 202

• The organization offers an award rate salary (currently Level 3.1 - $40.49 per hour) along with full salary packaging benefits. Employees also receive a generous annual remote location allowance, up to 5 weeks of annual leave, health and wellbeing support, and opportunities for career development through individual learning plans. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and ensuring a supportive environment for all employees.