Join us and lead our vibrant, dedicated and innovative Early Learning Service - Hobart
The Friends’ School, Hobart, is a leading Independent School in Tasmania offering a globally focused, high-quality education from Early Learning to Year 12. Guided by the Quaker values of Integrity, Simplicity, Equality, and Peace, we foster an inclusive, supportive and welcoming environment where students and staff alike can thrive.
At Friends’, we believe in lifelong learning - not just for our students, but for our staff as well. A career with us means becoming part of a dynamic community that values collaboration, personal growth and meaningful contributions. Whether in the classroom or beyond, our team plays a vital role in shaping the future through education, innovation and care.
If you’re looking for a workplace that inspires, challenges, and supports you, we invite you to explore the opportunities at The Friends’ School. Here, your work matters - not just to our students, but to the wider community and the world.
Why Work at The Friends’ School?
At The Friends’ School, we value our staff as much as our students. As part of our team, you’ll enjoy a supportive and inclusive workplace with a strong focus on wellbeing, professional growth, and work-life balance. We offer:
Wellbeing – Free Employee Assistance Program, annual flu vaccinations and wellbeing initiatives. No cost use of Friends Health & Fitness (conditions apply). Financial & Leave Benefits – Salaries are exclusive of super. Staff discounts on school fees. Paid parental leave, priority childcare access. Professional & Community Engagement – Induction programs, social events and opportunities to contribute to outreach programs like Relay for Life, Loui's Van and Red Cross Blood Donation.
Join us and be part of a school that truly values its people.
Job Description
About Friends’ Early Learning
Our Early Learning Service caters for 78 children aged 12 weeks to 4 years of age and incorporates the provision of an Outside School Hours Care program for up to 75 school students each day. The Early Learning team has a rich and strong history of building innovative programs within a connected community and purpose-built environments.
About the Role
The Friends’ School is seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Director of Early Learning to lead our high-quality Early Learning Service, including Outside School Hours Care (OSHC). This is an exciting opportunity to shape inspiring educational programs and support the meaningful engagement of our youngest children in a supportive, innovative, and highly regarded Education and Care context.
Our Early Learning Service and Outside School Hours Care Service is recognised as an Exceeding Service by ACECQA. It is known for its commitment to excellence in early childhood education and child safety. As Director, you will inspire and lead a passionate and cohesive team of educators, providing mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities while fostering a positive, collaborative workplace culture.
This is a permanent, full-time role (38 hours per week), with participation in the RDO scheme.
Why Join Us?
Lead an Exceeding-rated Early Learning Service with a strong reputation for innovation and excellence.
Champion and lead Reggio Emilia-inspired practice, fostering inquiry, creativity, and collaboration in every learning experience.
Collaborate with a supportive, passionate, and highly skilled team dedicated to best practice.
Shape meaningful learning experiences for children in a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment.
Be part of a values-driven school community that champions professional growth, leadership development, and work–life balance.
Enjoy comprehensive professional learning opportunities and dedicated time for reflection and growth.
Enjoy generous staff benefits, including fee concessions for children enrolled in the School, free Friends Health & Fitness membership, rostered days off, and additional carer’s leave.
Key Focus Areas
Lead the day-to-day operations of Friends’ Early Learning and OSHC, ensuring compliance with the National Quality Framework.
Undertake the role of Nominated Supervisor.
Lead the Service’s Educational Leader and Early Learning Lead Educators Team to strengthen the integration of philosophy, program and practice, ensuring compliance with approved learning frameworks.
Provide mentorship, guidance, and professional development for Early Learning and OSHC staff.
Collaborate with the Head of Primary School and Financial Services team to manage budgets and operational planning.
Maintain a child-safe environment, championing safeguarding policies and mandatory reporting.
Oversee an Administration team that manages enrolments, orientation, waiting lists, and casual bookings.
Drive the implementation of the Quality Improvement Plan and continuous service development initiatives.
Build strong relationships with families, children, and the wider school community.
Participate in Whole School and Early Learning meetings, community events, and staff leadership activities.
