Position Description – Pre-school Teacher
Job Title Pre-School Teacher Commencement 13 April 2026
Classification Teachers Level CT1 to CT9
Salary (FTE) $97,143 pa - $138,369 pa Job Type Fixed Term – Part Time
Covering maternity leave
A Full time role may be considered
for the successful candidate
Website www.essington.nt.edu.au Location The Essington School, Darwin
Contact Tania Johnson
Context Statement
The Essington School was established in 1989 and offers high quality childcare, preschool, early childhood,
junior and senior school programs. The school is parent-led, non-denominational and co-educational with a
reputation for innovation and high-quality learning outcomes at a national and international level.
The Essington School is committed to delivering a world class education built on a foundation of high standards
and respectful relationships. We foster a culture of excellence, underpinned by our school values and a focus
on achievement and wellbeing. In partnership with our community, we provide a comprehensive pathway
from Preschool to Year 12, ensuring our young people have every opportunity to reach their potential and
engage positively in the world beyond.
Position Objective
To create a positive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment that supports the intellectual, social,
and emotional development of all students. The Preschool Teacher is responsible for delivering high-
quality teaching and learning programs aligned with Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and other
relevant curricula, fostering a culture of curiosity and respect, and working collaboratively with
colleagues, parents, and the wider school community to ensure the success and wellbeing of every
student.
Position activities
A teacher at the school will demonstrate the use of effective Teaching and Learning practices by:
* Creating a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where every child feels a
strong sense of belonging, being, and becoming
* Collaboratively designing and implementing a play-based and inquiry-driven curriculum that
supports each child's holistic development
* Intentionally and collaboratively planning, documenting, and reflecting on learning experiences
that extend children's interests, curiosities, and emerging skills
* Using formative assessment and observation to inform planning, track progress, and celebrate
individual growth against EYLF outcomes
* Embedding literacy, numeracy, and STEM concepts naturally through play, conversation, and
meaningful experiences
• Building secure, respectful, and reciprocal relationships with children, supporting their agency,
confidence, and independence
* Modelling the School's values in all interactions with children, families, and colleagues.
* Establishing and maintaining predictable (yet flexible) routines that promote wellbeing, safety,
and a sense of security.
* Engaging in reflective practice and ongoing professional learning to strengthen pedagogy and
maintain alignment with current early childhood research.
* Partnering with families through open, respectful communication, recognising them as the child's
first and most influential teachers.
* Meeting the Australian Children's Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) National Quality
Standards (NQS) and regulatory requirements.
* Promoting inclusive practices that support diversity and equitable access to learning opportunities
for all children.
* Integrating technology thoughtfully to enhance engagement and learning outcomes where
appropriate.
* Collaborating with colleagues in planning, reflective discussions, and continuous improvement
processes to support consistency and quality across the Preschool team.
* Maintaining accurate and confidential records of children's learning, attendance, health, and
wellbeing.
* Contributing to the creation and maintenance of high-quality learning environments - both indoor
and outdoor - that are aesthetically inviting, sustainable, and conducive to exploration.
* Take an active interest in the general life of the School, participating in co-curricular and
community events that strengthen connections across the community, Preschool and Junior
School (as required).
* Positively promoting the School both within the School community and in the wider community
Selection Criteria
Essential
1. Demonstrated knowledge and application of the EYLF, NQS, and child-centred pedagogies
2. Supplementary knowledge Australian Curriculum and Australian Professional Standards for
Teachers
3. Proven ability to plan, implement, and evaluate play-based learning experiences that support each
child's holistic development
4. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive, professional relationships with children,
families, and colleagues
5. High-level collaboration, organisational and time management skills, with attention to
documentation and compliance requirements
Desirable
1. Understanding of Montessori Pedagogy
2. Experience working in an early childhood setting.
3. Regular engagement with professional networks and associations.
4. Additional training or qualifications in allied health services (e.g. supporting students with
additional needs)
Appointment Conditions
The employee must have the following:
* A recognised university qualification in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent)
* Northern Territory Teacher Registration (TRB)
* Working with Children Clearance (WWCC) 'Ochre Card' - employment is conditional on
compliance with the Care and Protection of Children Act (NT) 2007, as amended, and the
accompanying regulations
* National Police Clearance, maintained for the duration of employment.
This job description is intended as a framework for performance review conducted by the Head of Junior
School who reserves the right to amend roles, responsibilities, and requirements as necessary to meet the
operational needs of the school.
Your performance and remuneration package will be reviewed at three months and again at six months
following commencement. These reviews may or may not result in a salary adjustment, at the discretion of
the Principal.
Superannuation Guarantee contributions at the current rate of 12% will be paid by the school in addition to
salary.
The Essington School offers employment benefits, including reduced tuition fees for family members and
increased stand-down periods.
Applications must include a detailed resume and a one-page summary addressing your suitability to
the position.