Trainee Centre Manager

We’re seeking a dedicated and experienced Centre Manager to lead our Lake Coogee centre with passion, purpose and professionalism.

Are you an experienced Educational Leader ready to take the next step in your leadership career?

Wildflowers Early Learning is seeking a passionate and capable Trainee Centre Manager / Educational Leader to join our Lake Coogee service.

This unique development opportunity has been created for an experienced Educational Leader who is ready to build their centre management knowledge, confidence and capability within a supportive and structured environment.

The successful applicant will initially work across both Educational Leadership and centre operations, while being closely mentored by our Centre Support Manager. Over a period of approximately 6–12 months, you will be supported to progressively develop the skills and experience required to step fully into a Centre Manager role.

About the role

As our Trainee Centre Manager / Educational Leader, you will:

• Lead and support high-quality educational programs and practice
• Mentor educators and strengthen curriculum decision-making, critical reflection and professional development
• Support the daily operations of the centre
• Assist with staffing, rostering, compliance and centre administration
• Build strong and respectful relationships with children, families and the wider community
• Support a positive, collaborative and accountable workplace culture
• Develop your knowledge of occupancy, budgets, enrolments and operational performance
• Work closely with the Centre Support Manager and senior leadership team
• Participate in a structured development pathway toward becoming a Centre Manager within approximately 6–12 months

About you

To be considered for this opportunity, you will:

• Hold an approved Diploma or Early Childhood Teaching qualification
• Have demonstrated experience working as an Educational Leader within an early childhood education and care service
• Demonstrate strong leadership, communication and relationship-building skills
• Have a sound understanding of the National Quality Framework, National Quality Standards and Early Years Learning Framework
• Be experienced in mentoring educators and supporting high-quality curriculum and practice
• Be organised, reflective and committed to continuous improvement
• Be able to build positive partnerships with children, families and colleagues
• Be motivated to develop into a capable and confident Centre Manager
• Share our commitment to creating environments where children, families and educators can thrive

Why join Wildflowers?

At Wildflowers Early Learning, our values of Respect, Connect and Thrive guide everything we do.

We are committed to developing strong early childhood leaders through genuine mentoring, practical experience and meaningful opportunities for career progression.

This role offers:

• Dedicated mentoring from our Centre Support Manager
• A structured 6–12 month pathway toward centre management
• Hands-on experience across education, operations, compliance and leadership
• Support from an experienced senior leadership team
• Ongoing professional development and career progression
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference within a supportive and values-led organisation

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Educational Leader who is ready to grow their career, lead with purpose and take the next step toward centre management.

Apply now

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your Educational Leader experience and why you are ready to progress into a Centre Manager role.

🌿 Grow your leadership career with Wildflowers Early Learning.

• A supportive, values-driven organisation where respect, connection and growth come first.

• Competitive salary package with performance incentives.

• Ongoing professional development and leadership training.

• Opportunity to make your mark by leading a well-resourced centre with a passionate team.

• A collaborative leadership network across Wildflowers centres.

• Staff discount on child care fees.