POSITION TITLE: Early Childhood Educator - Certificate III qualified (Integrated Centres / Services) POSITION NUMBER: 2467 & 0098 CLASSIFICATION/BAND: City of Greater Geelong Enterprise Agreement (as amended from time to time) Band 3A $49,937.40 per annum, plus superannuation STATUS: Permanent Full Time Position DIVISION: Community Services DEPARTMENT: Family Services APPROVED BY: Megan Holbrook DATE APPROVED: 22 October 2014 POSITION OBJECTIVES: To provide high quality education and care within an integrated children s centre. To work cooperatively with a team of Early Childhood Educators and allied professionals to provide a safe, caring and educational environment for children attending the service. To assist senior staff with the implementation and evaluation of developmentally appropriate educational programs that reflect children s needs and meet the requirements of the State Regulations and Commonwealth Government Guidelines, including the Early Years Learning and Development Framework and the National Quality Standards and City of Greater Geelong Policies and Procedures.
THE CITY OF GREATER GEELONG: The City of Greater Geelong is one of the largest local government areas in Victoria. The City provides more than 120 services to the municipality which has a population of more than 200,000. The City has an annual budget of $229 million and employs over 2000 staff. It also utilises a large number of volunteers. The organisation has five divisions: Community Services; Corporate Services; Economic Development, Planning and Tourism; City Services and Projects, Recreation and Central Geelong. Geelong: Located 75 kilometres from Melbourne, Geelong is Victoria s second largest city and is renowned for its stunning north facing waterfront which overlooks Corio Bay. Geelong is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with a relaxed coastal flavour. It is recognised as offering one of the best lifestyles in Australia. Geelong has all the modern amenities of larger cities, combined with a clean and healthy environment. Just minutes away from the city centre are kilometres of pristine beaches, charming seaside townships and unspoilt rural hinterland. Geelong is also the gateway to the famous Great Ocean Road and some of the best surf beaches in the world. The City offers excellent educational opportunities. Geelong Grammar, Geelong College, The Gordon and Deakin University are just some of the schools and tertiary institutions in the region. ORGANISATION ENVIRONMENT: Geelong is among the largest of 79 Councils which collectively represent approximately 5 million Victorians. While each Council is independent, there are common rules, mainly in the form of State Legislation, which provide the framework in which Councils operate. Our Vision: Greater Geelong: building our community through enterprise, opportunity and innovation in a quality environment. Our Mission: We will focus on developing and maintaining effective working relationships to deliver Council's strategic directions and high quality services that meet the changing needs of our community. Values and Behaviours: Values form the basis of our behaviour; they add meaning to work and they provide a basis for consistent planning and decision making across the organisation. The City of Greater Geelong aims to foster a culture that embraces the organisation values being Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Respect. All employees should demonstrate the behaviours that come from these values when carrying out their work. ORGANISATION RELATIONSHIP: This position is part of the Community Services Division which comprises the following departments: Aged and Disability Services Arts and Culture Community Development Family Services Health and Local Laws
Reports To: Directly Manages: Internal Liaisons: External Liaisons: Centre Manager and Coordinator Integrated Children s Centres N/A Centre-based staff, other Council departments Service Users, Local Community and Resource Agencies, Regional Childcare Centres INTEGRATED CHILDREN S CENTRES The City of Greater Geelong has expressed its commitment to the development of integrated service delivery for children within its Municipal Early Years Plan 2013-2017: A Place for Us. The Plan highlights the importance of integrated service delivery for improving outcomes for young children and their families through professionals and services working together to promote more efficient, accessible and responsive service delivery for families with young children. Similarly, the Municipal Children s Services Infrastructure Plan 2013-2030, outlines the Council s commitment to the development of integrated early years services within community-based centres, where possible and practicable. The Boorai Centre Ocean Grove opened in January 2014 as the first integrated children s centre within the City of Greater Geelong. It brings together, within an integrated practice model, a range of education, health, support and community services for children, including education and care (long day care, occasional care and kindergarten services), maternal and child health, parenting support, family support, allied health, early intervention and other specialist support services. In 2015, four additional centres will open across the municipality; Leopold, Grovedale, Barwon Heads and Norlane, with a combination of different services. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Provision of Child Care 1. Ensure an inclusive, safe, caring and educational environment exists for all children and that the health and well being of each child is a priority. 2. Assist with the implementation of an age and developmentally appropriate educational program for all children, in consultation with parents/carers and other centre-based professionals, individually and in group situations. 3. Assist children with additional needs or vulnerabilities to develop their skills and abilities within a supportive learning environment. 4. Provide a standard of care which is in accordance with Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012, Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010, Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework, Early Years Learning Framework for Australia and National Quality Standards. 5. Support the delivery of culturally responsive programs and responses to all children, within the context of their families and communities. Liaison and Resourcing 6. Liaise with parents/carers in relation to the needs and education of their children, and support families in their parenting role. 7. Respond to enquiries relating to the programs, procedures and activities within the Centre. 8. Liaise with other centre-based staff, professionals within external agencies and the Centre Manager in regard to the development and needs of individual children and their families. 9. Ensure confidentiality, professionalism and discretion is maintained at all times, in line with legislative and organisational policy requirements. 10. Act as a professional resource for parents, other centre-based staff and the broader community in relation to community and support options for children and their families. 11. Establish effective working relationships with centre-based and external professionals in relation to providing an integrated response to the education and support of children and their families.
12. Assist in the provision of supervision, support and mentoring to students. Team Building 13. Maintain a co-operative and flexible attitude towards the development of a motivated and professional multi-disciplinary team within the centre. 14. Assist in the establishment of daily procedures, objectives and philosophies for the Centre. 15. Act as a professional resource to other Centre-based staff in the sharing of program ideas, educational expertise and information exchange. 16. Attend staff and/or committee meetings and participate in project teams as required. 17. Carry out other duties as deemed reasonable and appropriate to the role as directed from time to time. Administrative Support 18. Respond to enquires from new families in relation to all Centre activities. 19. Orientate and enrol families within education services and other Centre-based services (if required). 20. Liaise with the Centre Manager regarding the purchase of materials/stocks and equipment. 21. In consultation with other education staff, maintain the children s portfolios and room plans. 22. Support and assist the Centre Manager in general administration in relation to the operation of the centre, including office-based duties. Professional Development 23. Assist with recommendations for policy and/or operational changes to the Centre. 24. Maintain up-to-date professional knowledge, resources and skills through in-service education, multi-disciplinary meetings and other professional development opportunities. 25. Actively participate and maintain a commitment to the National Quality Standards. 26. Promote and practice The Australian Early Childhood Association Code of Ethics 27. Adherence to all Council s policies and procedures as relevant to this position. KEY SELECTION CRITERIA: Essential: 1. Certificate III in Children s Services or equivalent. Must also include all items listed under Qualifications and Experience. 2. Sound knowledge of the development of children in the 0-6 years age group in relation to the Early Years Learning and Development Frameworks. 3. Ability to make recommendations to senior staff, on the planning and implementation of education and care programs within the centre. 4. Ability to identify Health and Safety issues pertaining to the work environment. 5. Ability to ensure confidentiality, professionalism and discretion are maintained at all times. 6. Ability to establish effective professional relationships with staff from a range of professional backgrounds in relation to the education and needs of children and their families. 7. Ability to demonstrate initiative and flexibility. 8. All candidates should display integrity, responsibility, respect for others and the ability to be innovative. Desirable: 1. Previous experience in a childcare, kindergarten or pre-school setting. 2. An understanding of the potential benefits to children and their families of an integrated children s centre. 3. Certificate in Emergency Asthma Management (Asthma in Childcare)
ACCOUNTABILITY AND EXTENT OF AUTHORITY: Assist with the effective planning, implementation and evaluation of child focused programs within the Centre. Responsible for informing the Centre Director of any service developments, difficulties and opportunities that may arise in relation to program and centre-based activities. May assist with the supervision and mentoring of students. Assist with maintaining records of appropriate educational programs based on written observations and evaluations of children s development, interests and needs. Undertake duties in accordance with all legislative requirements and Council policies and procedures. Provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for children. Contribute to the development and maintenance of an integrated, child-centred response to families using the Centre. Accountable for creating and capturing accurate and complete records of the business activities related to this position, in accordance with approved policy and procedures. This is applicable to both hardcopy and electronic information, including email. Assist the team by supporting the Centre philosophy, goals and objectives, in order to promote the growth and development of all children on a daily and long term basis. Participate in consultations with and practice discussions with relevant centre-based and external professionals. Maintain positive and effective communication with parents, staff, visitors, other agencies, government departments and staff from the City of Greater Geelong. JUDGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING: In consultation with other educators, make recommendations to the Centre Manager on the planning and implementation of education and other programs within the Centre. To bring to the attention of the Centre Manager, any Health and Safety or operational issues pertaining to their work environment. In consultation with other educators and Centre-based professionals, make decisions regarding children s development, needs and well-being. SPECIALIST SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Sound knowledge of the development of children in the 0-6 years age group (within the context of their families and communities). Developed skills in observing and interpreting children s behavior and demonstrated ability to relate effectively to young children. Sound knowledge of the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012, the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010, related legislation and Council s OHS Policies, National Quality Standards, and a sound knowledge of the Early Years Learning and Development Framework. MANAGEMENT SKILLS: Ability to manage own time, organise tasks and assist with the supervision and mentoring of students as directed.
INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times. Demonstrated ability to be innovative within the programs. Demonstrated ability to be enthusiastic and self-motivated. Demonstrated ability to work ethically at all times. Sound communication skills. Positive approach to shared decision-making across a range of professional backgrounds and experiences. An understanding of and respect for diverse social and cultural values and attitudes in relation to parenting and caring for children. Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with team members from a range of professional backgrounds. Ability to demonstrate Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Respect in all aspects of the position. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: Certificate III in Children s Services or equivalent as required in accordance with the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012. Current Level 2 First Aid and updated CPR. Anaphylaxis Awareness (21827VIC) or First Aid Management of Anaphylaxis (21659VIC). Current Working With Children s Check. Current Police Check (must be less than 6 months from date of issue). Experience in a childcare, kindergarten or pre-school setting is desirable. SPECIFIC HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS: A pre-employment medical examination may be required. Participate, where required, in the reporting of health, safety and wellbeing issues. Manual handling tasks involved. Dealing with difficult clients and situations. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Employment is subject to the presentation of documentary evidence of the right to work in Australia. A National Police Records check may be required throughout your employment with Council. A current Victorian Drivers Licence is essential where the need to drive a Council vehicle is required. RISK MANAGEMENT, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND CHARTER OF HUMAN RIGHTS: Observe policies and procedures to minimise injury and damage to assets and property. Adhere to Council s OH&S, equal opportunity and risk management policies, as well as act in accordance with the Charter of Human Rights.
Ensure behaviour in the workplace does not discriminate, bully or harass others. Take reasonable care of self and others who may be affected by your actions. OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION: Employment may be subject to a three-month probationary period (please note that following consultation, this period may be extended by up to a further three months). Internal candidates may be subject to a three-month trial period. Conditions of employment are as per your contract of employment. The City of Greater Geelong is an Equal Opportunity Employer and has a no smoking in the workplace practise and is also committed to Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) in the workplace and therefore all employees adherence to all OH&S Policies and Procedures is mandatory. HOW TO APPLY Applications for this position close at 5.00pm on Friday 7 November 2014 and should be submitted through the on-line facility at www.geelongaustralia.com.au (for internal candidates, please refer to CityWeb). Applicants should address the key selection criteria (outlined above) as part of their application. Should you not have access to the on-line facility, applications may be directed to: Recruitment Administration Officer Organisation Development Department City of Greater Geelong PO Box 104 GEELONG VIC 3220 Phone: 5272 4273 Fax: 5272 4292 For details on the recruitment process If you require further information regarding this position, please contact: Susanna Sibillin, Coordinator Integrated Children s Centres on 5272 4029 Privacy Statement Making an application for this position requires that you consent to the collection, use, storage and destruction of personal information, including details of your referees. This information will assist us to select the best applicant for the vacant position. At all times during the recruitment and selection process, personal data will be treated in a highly confidential manner. Documents will only be available to members of the selection committee for the purposes of selecting the best person for the position. All unsuccessful applicants documentation will be destroyed three months after the end of the recruitment process. Please do not send originals of documentation with your application, as they will be destroyed. In addition the applicant understands that they may apply to Council for access and/or amendment of the information. Successful applicant details become employment-related information and will be placed on the successful applicant s Personal File. The City of Greater Geelong may release this personal information to third parties such as Vision Super Fund Pty Ltd., Victorian Workcover and Centrelink for employment related purposes.
POSITION TITLE: Early Childhood Educator Certificate III qualified POSITION NUMBER: 0098 CLASSIFICATION/BAND: City of Greater Geelong Enterprise Agreement (as amended from time to time) Band 3A Salary $49,937.40 (pro rata) per annum, plus superannuation STATUS: Permanent Full Time Position DIVISION: Community Services DEPARTMENT: Family Services APPROVED BY: Megan Holbrook DATE APPROVED: 22 October 2014 POSITION OBJECTIVES: To provide high quality child care in a centre based environment. To work co-operatively with a network of Early Childhood Educators and allied professionals to provide a safe, caring and educational environment for children attending the service. To assist senior staff with the implementation and evaluation of developmentally appropriate educational programs that reflect children s needs and meet the requirements of the State Regulations and Commonwealth Government Guidelines, including the Early Years Learning and Development Framework and the National Quality Standards and City of Greater Geelong Policies and Procedures.
THE CITY OF GREATER GEELONG: The City of Greater Geelong is one of the largest local government areas in Victoria. The City provides more than 120 services to the municipality which has a population of more than 200,000. The City has an annual budget of $229 million and employs over 2000 staff. It also utilises a large number of volunteers. The organisation has five divisions: Community Services; Corporate Services; Economic Development, Planning and Tourism; City Services and Projects, Recreation and Central Geelong. Geelong: Located 75 kilometres from Melbourne, Geelong is Victoria s second largest city and is renowned for its stunning north facing waterfront which overlooks Corio Bay. Geelong is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with a relaxed coastal flavour. It is recognised as offering one of the best lifestyles in Australia. Geelong has all the modern amenities of larger cities, combined with a clean and healthy environment. Just minutes away from the city centre are kilometres of pristine beaches, charming seaside townships and unspoilt rural hinterland. Geelong is also the gateway to the famous Great Ocean Road and some of the best surf beaches in the world. The City offers excellent educational opportunities. Geelong Grammar, Geelong College, The Gordon and Deakin University are just some of the schools and tertiary institutions in the region. ORGANISATION ENVIRONMENT: Geelong is among the largest of 79 Councils which collectively represent approximately 5 million Victorians. While each Council is independent, there are common rules, mainly in the form of State Legislation, which provide the framework in which Councils operate. Our Vision: Greater Geelong: building our community through enterprise, opportunity and innovation in a quality environment. Our Mission: We will focus on developing and maintaining effective working relationships to deliver Council's strategic directions and high quality services that meet the changing needs of our community. Values and Behaviours: Values form the basis of our behaviour; they add meaning to work and they provide a basis for consistent planning and decision making across the organisation. The City of Greater Geelong aims to foster a culture that embraces the organisation values being Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Respect. All employees should demonstrate the behaviours that come from these values when carrying out their work.
ORGANISATION RELATIONSHIP: This position is part of the Community Services Division which comprises the following departments: Aged and Disability Services Arts and Culture Community Development Family Services Health and Local Laws Reports To: Directly Manages: Internal Liaisons: External Liaisons: Centre Director and Coordinator Early Childhood Education and Care N/A City Learning and Care staff, other Council departments Service Users, Local Community and Resource Agencies, Regional Childcare Centres KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Provision of Child Care 28. Ensure an inclusive, safe, caring and educational environment exists for all children and that the health and well being of each child is a priority. 29. To assist with the implementation of a developmentally appropriate educational program for all children, individually and in the group situation. 30. Assist children with additional needs to develop their skills and abilities within a supportive environment. 31. Provide a standard of care which is in accordance with Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012, Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010, Early Years Learning & Development Framework Victoria, Early Years Learning Framework for Australia and National Quality Standards. Liaison and Resourcing 32. Liaise with parents for effective communication of details in relation to their children, and support families in their child rearing role. 33. Respond to enquiries relating to the programs, procedures and activities within the Centre. 34. Liaise with the Centre Director, other staff and resource agencies in regard to the development of individual children. 35. Responsible for ensuring confidentiality, professionalism and discretion is maintained at all times. 36. Act as resource to parents and the community through maintaining an awareness of community and support agencies. 37. Assist room staff to supervise and support students. Team Building 38. Maintain a co-operative and flexible attitude towards the development of a motivated and professional team. 39. Assist in establishment of daily procedures, objectives and philosophies for the Centre. 40. Act as resource to other staff in sharing of program ideas, support and information exchange. 41. Attend staff and/or committee meetings and participate in project teams as required. 42. Carry out other duties as deemed reasonable and appropriate to the role as directed from time to time. Administrative Support 43. Ability to respond to enquires, orientate and enrol new families. 44. Liaise with the Centre Director regarding the purchase of materials/stocks and equipment. 45. Assist Room staff to maintain the Children s portfolios and room plans.
46. Support and assist the Centre Director in the general administration, including office duties Professional Development 47. Assist with recommendation of policy and/or operational changes to the Centre. 48. To maintain professional knowledge, resources and skills through in-service education, sharing ideas, professional reading etc 49. Actively participate and maintain a commitment to the National Quality Standards. 50. Promote and practice The Australian Early Childhood Association Code of Ethics 51. Adherence to all Council s policies and procedures as relevant to this position. KEY SELECTION CRITERIA: Essential: 9. Certificate III in Children s Services or equivalent. Must also include all items listed under Qualifications and Experience. 10. Sound knowledge of the development of children in the 0-6 years age group in relation to the Early Years Learning and Development Frameworks. 11. Ability to make recommendations to senior staff, on planning and implementation of childcare programs within the centre. 12. Ability to identify Health and Safety issues pertaining to the work environment. 13. Ability to ensure confidentiality, professionalism and discretion are maintained at all times. 14. Ability to demonstrate initiative and flexibility. 15. All candidates should display integrity, responsibility, respect for others and the ability to be innovative. Desirable: 4. Previous experience in a Childcare Centre. 5. Certificate in Emergency Asthma Management (Asthma in Childcare) ACCOUNTABILITY AND EXTENT OF AUTHORITY: Assist with the effective planning, implementation and evaluation of child focused programs within the Centre. Responsible for informing the Centre Director of any service developments, difficulties and opportunities. May assist with the supervision of students. Assist with maintaining records of appropriate educational programs based on written observations and evaluations of children s development. Undertake duties in accordance with all legislative requirements and Council policies and procedures. Provide a safe and nurturing environment. Accountable for creating and capturing accurate and complete records of the business activities related to this position, in accordance with approved policy and procedures. This is applicable to both hardcopy and electronic information, including email. Assist the team by supporting the Centre philosophy, goals and objectives, to promote the growth and development of all children on a daily and long term basis. Assist in, consultation with relevant referral agencies and specialists. Maintain positive and effective communication with parents, staff, visitors, other agencies, government departments and staff from the City of Greater Geelong.
JUDGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING: In consultation with Room staff, make recommendations to the Centre Director on planning and implementation of Childcare programs within the Centre. To bring to the attention of the Centre Director, any Health and Safety or operational issues pertaining to their work environment. In consultation with Room staff, make decisions regarding children s development and wellbeing. SPECIALIST SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE: Sound knowledge of the development of children in the 0-6 years age group. Developed skills in observing and interpreting children s behavior and demonstrated ability to relate effectively to young children. Sound knowledge of Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012, Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010, related legislation and Council s OHS Policies, National Quality Standards, and a sound knowledge of the Early Years Learning and Development Framework. MANAGEMENT SKILLS: Ability to manage own time, organise tasks and assist with the supervision of students as directed. INTERPERSONAL SKILLS: Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times. Demonstrated ability to be innovative within the programs. Demonstrated ability to be enthusiastic and self-motivated. Demonstrated ability to work ethically at all times. Sound communication skills. Positive approach to shared decision-making. An understanding and acceptance of differing social and cultural values and attitudes to raising children. Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with team members. Ability to demonstrate Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Respect in all aspects of the position. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: Certificate III in Children s Services or equivalent as required in accordance with Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012. Current Level 2 First Aid and updated CPR. Anaphylaxis Awareness (21827VIC) or First Aid Management of Anaphylaxis (21659VIC). Current Working With Children s Check. Current Police Check (must be less than 6 months from date of issue). Experience in a Childcare centre is desirable.
SPECIFIC HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS: A pre-employment medical examination may be required. Participate, where required, in the reporting of health, safety and wellbeing issues. Manual handling tasks involved. Dealing with difficult clients and situations. SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Employment is subject to the presentation of documentary evidence of the right to work in Australia. A National Police Records check may be required throughout your employment with Council. A current Victorian Drivers Licence is essential where the need to drive a Council vehicle is required. Whilst staff will generally be working from one centre there are benefits for staff and the Centre in having staff work across all of the City s Child Care Centres. Given this, the position is not tied to one location. RISK MANAGEMENT, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND CHARTER OF HUMAN RIGHTS: Observe policies and procedures to minimise injury and damage to assets and property. Adhere to Council s OH&S, equal opportunity and risk management policies, as well as act in accordance with the Charter of Human Rights. Ensure behaviour in the workplace does not discriminate, bully or harass others. Take reasonable care of self and others who may be affected by your actions. OTHER RELEVANT INFORMATION: Employment may be subject to a three-month probationary period (please note that following consultation, this period may be extended by up to a further three months). Internal candidates may be subject to a three-month trial period. Conditions of employment are as per your contract of employment. The City of Greater Geelong is an Equal Opportunity Employer and has a no smoking in the workplace practise and is also committed to Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) in the workplace and therefore all employees adherence to all OH&S Policies and Procedures is mandatory.
HOW TO APPLY Applications for this position close at 5.00pm Friday 7 November 2014 and should be submitted through the on-line facility at www.geelongaustralia.com.au (for internal candidates, please refer to CityWeb). Should you not have access to the on-line facility, applications may be directed to: Recruitment Administration Officer Organisation Development Department City of Greater Geelong PO Box 104 GEELONG VIC 3220 Phone: 5272 4273 Fax: 5272 4292 For details on the recruitment process If you require further information regarding this position, please contact: Lisa Demajo, Coordinator Early Childhood Education and Care on 5272 4797 Privacy Statement Making an application for this position requires that you consent to the collection, use, storage and destruction of personal information, including details of your referees. This information will assist us to select the best applicant for the vacant position. At all times during the recruitment and selection process, personal data will be treated in a highly confidential manner. Documents will only be available to members of the selection committee for the purposes of selecting the best person for the position. All unsuccessful applicants documentation will be destroyed three months after the end of the recruitment process. Please do not send originals of documentation with your application, as they will be destroyed. In addition the applicant understands that they may apply to Council for access and/or amendment of the information. Successful applicant details become employment-related information and will be placed on the successful applicant s Personal File. The City of Greater Geelong may release this personal information to third parties such as Vision Super Fund Pty Ltd., Victorian Workcover and Centrelink for employment related purposes.