Brand‑New Centre Opening April 2026 | Foundation Team Opportunity
Journey Early Learning is excited to be opening our brand‑new Echuca West (VIC) centre in April 2026, and we’re looking for an inspiring and committed Lead Educator to join our foundation team. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a centre from the ground up — creating the culture, routines, and learning environments that will support children, families and educators for years to come. ✨
About Our New Echuca West Centre
Designed with intention, our new service places children, educators and families at the heart of every space.
Licensed for 120 children across 8 learning environments
Purpose-built, modern and beautifully resourced
Operating 6:30am – 6:30pm
Deep focus on community connection, outdoor learning and meaningful excursions
Dedicated onboarding and mentoring for all foundation team members
Joining a brand‑new centre means being part of something joyful and exciting. You’ll help establish the room culture, shape daily practices, influence program design and build strong relationships with families from day one.
Why Journey?
Our culture is grounded in four pillars that guide how we show up for our children, families and teams:
* Trust & Belief
* Support & Wellbeing
* Growth & Development
* Passion & Possibilities
We invest in you, celebrate you and give you room to grow.
What We Offer
As a Lead Educator, you’ll enjoy:
Competitive hourly rate + super
Educator Wage Retention Payment (paid weekly)
80% childcare discount *
Paid Birthday Leave + meaningful anniversary gifts
Paid First Aid, CPR & Anaphylaxis training
Access to Journey Academy for ongoing learning
Targeted leadership pathways and coaching
High‑quality, inspiring resources and environments
Supportive leaders and a people‑first culture
Mental Health First Aid & Employee Assistance Program
* Terms & conditions apply.
Your Role as a Lead Educator
As a Lead Educator, you will:
Champion high‑quality, child‑led programs
Create warm, inclusive and inspiring learning spaces
Lead and guide educators within your room
Build strong, trusting relationships with children, families and your team
Model reflective practice and support continuous improvement
Bring creativity, consistency and joy into everyday routines
You’ll have a meaningful voice in shaping the identity of our new centre and supporting a positive, collaborative culture from the ground up.
What You’ll Bring
A Diploma in Early Childhood Education (ACECQA recognised)
Experience leading age‑specific programs and supporting a team
Strong knowledge of the EYLF & NQS
A valid Working with Children Check
Current First Aid, Asthma & Anaphylaxis certifications
A warm, collaborative and child‑focused mindset
Ready to Join the Journey?
If you’re excited by the idea of shaping a brand‑new centre and leading with heart, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help create a place where children feel safe, supported and ready to thrive.
Our Commitment to Child Safety ️
Journey Early Learning promotes the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children, including children with disabilities and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. We are committed to every child’s right to feel safe, supported and empowered.