Kindergarten Teacher: Little Sophia Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten

Kindergarten Teacher (Maternity Leave Position) 

Position Description

Little Sophia Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten

 

Background

Little Sophia is a not-for-profit, inner city Steiner long day kindergarten. We currently offer a playgroup and an approved kindergarten program within a long day care setting. Little Sophia has two rooms, Dragonfly and Kingfisher, catering for 19 and 20 children respectively each per day. Two qualified ECT’s will lead either room - supported by 2-3 educators each day.

 

Primary role: The Kindergarten Teacher 

This position is for a full-time Kindergarten Teacher (Maternity Leave). The teacher will work (Monday-Friday) 38 hours (inclusive of contact and non- contact hours)

Kindergarten in a Steiner Early Childhood setting is a play-based program that engages the will forces of the child in strong daily, weekly and seasonal rhythms. Imaginative play is alternated with the structured, teacher led activities. The seasonal focus of stories, songs and festivals, practical home and garden tasks, nature walks and time playing outdoors fosters reverence and wonder in the natural world. The teacher creates a beautiful, rich environment, with open ended natural play materials and works through imitation and imagination to engage the children deeply and with focus in their imaginative play.

The role of the Kindergarten Teacher within a Steiner Kinder is of deep significance. The teacher must be a model worthy of imitation to all within the room. At all times the Steiner Teacher must demonstrate respect, patience, gentleness, strength, and care for all. The Steiner Teacher’s role is to provide activities and opportunities that help the imagination unfold through play. All children are encouraged to express themselves and their opinions and to undertake experiences that develop self-reliance and self-esteem.

 

The Steiner Teacher’s work and care of the children interweaves with that of their team to create a secure and gentle environment that allows children to explore and learn through play. The teacher leads the educational team in developing the kindergarten program, and in creating the rhythm and structure of the children’s day. Each teacher works collaboratively with their team to develop harmonious experiences and coordinated approaches in their activities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nature of the Role

There are several key aspects to the role of Kindergarten Teacher at Little Sophia Kindergarten:

  • Teaching practice
  • Professional development
  • Planning

 

The Kindergarten Teacher will: 

 

Teaching Practice

  • Present a high-quality Steiner educational program for children
    • Morning circle, known by heart that reflects the children's needs and physical expression
    • Blessings, verses, finger plays that link to the season and occasion
    • Story, told orally by heart
    • Artistic activities that reflect children's developmental stage and/or seasonal experience
  • Plan and Implement a kindergarten program that meets both the Steiner early childhood pedagogy and regulations set out in the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework and the National Quality Framework, and make this visible through documentation
    • Valuable documentation of child’s learning
    • Planning based on children's developmental needs, abilities and interests
  • Maintain good communications with parents concerning the progress of their child
  • Ensure children and families feel respected and supported
  • Employ a variety of effective teaching strategies to successfully implement the kindergarten program and support child development
  • Provide critical reflection of their practice and the ongoing self-assessment of strengths, identified issues and goals
  • Prepare and lead seasonal festivals, parent meetings and information evenings as required

 

  • Create a respectful, supportive and collaborative environment for staff
  • Work cooperatively with the other teachers at Little Sophia Kindergarten using a collegiate team approach, to share knowledge, experiences and the running and planning of the Kindergarten Programs
  • Hold responsibility whist equally working collaboratively to resolve issues that arise within the kindergarten
  • Lead the Kingfisher room with all of its staff, providing educational leadership while working as a member of a collaborative teaching team with educators, teachers and office staff

 

Professional Development

  • Have a commitment to learning and personal professional development
  • Attend appropriate seminars and courses and professional development sessions
  • Mentor, guide and encourage student teachers, and volunteers
  • Maintain relationships with professional associations
  • Participate in the Professional Reflection and Review processes at Little Sophia Kindergarten

 

General, Administrative and other Activities
In addition to the normal load of a teacher, the Kindergarten teacher is expected to:

  • Attend meetings as required
  • Attend College meetings
  • Create and maintain a beautifully, cared for and presented kindergarten room and play area
  • Plan, prepare and organise end of term festivals that relate to the seasons
  • Be available to meet with Leadership Group and/or other teachers as necessary

 

 

Specialist skills and knowledge:

  • A sound knowledge and understanding of Steiner early childhood learning and development theories and learning styles
  • A strong understanding of Steiner curriculum approaches and a thorough knowledge of the Early Years Learning Framework, National Quality Framework and Child Safe Standards
  • A sound knowledge of legislation governing the operation of children’s services, as well as a solid understanding of the quality areas under the National Quality Standard
  • A thorough understanding of the ECA Code of Ethics and be able to support other staff understanding of this Code
  • Reinforce the principles laid out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child
  • The ability to coach and mentor, as required, other educators in the development of a robust educational program
  • The ability to facilitate professional discussions and lead and support critical reflection in all aspects of program delivery across the service in consultation with relevant stakeholders
  • The ability to plan, work and manage time effectively with minimal supervision
  • Ability to work with other teachers to develop and implement the Kindergarten program.

 

Interpersonal skills:

  • Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to professionally communicate with the Governance Committee (employer), families, other staff and professionals
  • Ability to challenge and support other educators to improve their approach to teaching children
  • Well-developed leadership and self-motivation skills
  • Ability to identify and utilise people's strengths and build constructive and productive relationships
  • Ability to work cooperatively within a team environment to share information and resources and develop programs
  • Ability to ensure confidentiality of information

 

Essential requirements:

  • Hold a suitable degree in Early Childhood or (equivalent or above) recognised under the ACECQA and have experience working in education and care services.
  • Knowledge and or experience of Rudolf Steiner Educations
  • Teaching experience in early childhood Steiner education programs preferred but not essential
  • Must be able to fill the position of Nominated Supervisor if required under the Education and Care Services National Regulations
  • Hold and maintain a current provisional or registration as a teacher under the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT).
  • Hold a current approved first aid qualification, approved anaphylaxis management training and approved emergency asthma management training, in accordance with the Education and Care Services National Regulations and service policies

 

Salary and Conditions: 

  • Salary and Conditions are in accordance with the Early Childhood Teachers Award (VECTEA) 2020

 

Key Selection Criteria:

  • Have knowledge of and experience in Steiner early childhood curriculum
  • Have a strong understanding of the approved Early Years Learning Frameworks (EYLF), National Quality Framework (NQF) and Child Safe Standards; demonstrated ability to apply Centre Policies and National Child Care Regulations in an early childhood environment
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver high quality kindergarten programs based on VEYLDF and EYLF, that meet the emotional and developmental needs of children
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, to share ideas, resources and equipment and to develop programs
  • Excellent interpersonal skills including demonstrated ability to:
    • communicate respectfully and effectively with children, other teachers, staff, parents/carers, and the Governance Committee (employer)
    • work in a cooperative, flexible and professional manner within a team environment
    • resolve conflicts or differences of opinion in an amicable, professional and collegial manner
    • support other educators to improve their approach to teaching children to undertake self-reflection and professional development and be self-motivated; to identify and utilise people's strengths and build relationships
    • ensure confidentiality of information

 

STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT TO CHILD SAFETY

 

At Little Sophia Kindergarten, we are deeply committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and cultural security of all children in our care. We proudly uphold a child safe environment and are dedicated to promoting cultural safety for Aboriginal children, respecting, and valuing their rich heritage. We embrace diversity and inclusivity, providing a safe and nurturing space for children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, as well as children with disabilities. We firmly reject discriminatory practices and work collaboratively with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) to educate children on their right to be safe.

 

We are committed to implementing and abiding by our Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy based on Child Safe Standards in Victoria (2022) ccyp.vic.gov.au/child-safe-standards/the-11-child-safe-standards/

 

Our Child Safe Statement encompasses the following commitments:

 

Child Safety Commitment:

We prioritise the safety and protection of every child within our care. We maintain a zero-tolerance stance towards any form of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Our dedicated staff members receive comprehensive training, resources, and support to fulfill their duty of care effectively. We continuously assess and address potential risks to ensure a safe and secure environment. We actively encourage open communication, listening attentively to children, families, and the wider community, and respond promptly and compassionately to any concerns or feedback.

 

Cultural Safety Commitment:

We wholeheartedly acknowledge and deeply respect the cultural heritage, diversity, and unique needs of Aboriginal children and children from diverse backgrounds. We are committed to promoting cultural safety by fostering an environment that appreciates, respects, and celebrates different cultures, traditions, and languages.

We provide culturally appropriate learning experiences that honour Aboriginal cultures and the diverse backgrounds of our children and families. Discriminatory practices have no place within our community, and we strive to cultivate an atmosphere that promotes inclusivity, respect, and acceptance for all.

 

Safe Environment for Children with Disabilities:

We are resolute in providing a safe and inclusive environment for children with disabilities. We are committed to accommodating the individual needs of each child, ensuring equal access to our programs and facilities. We work closely with families and relevant professionals to implement tailored support and accommodations, fostering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and participation.

 

United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child:

Aligned with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), we recognise and advocate for children's rights to be safe, heard, and respected as active participants in decisions that affect them. We integrate the principles of the UNCRC into our practices, policies, and educational programs. We educate children about their rights and responsibilities, empowering them with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognise and respond to potential risks. Through collaboration with families, community members, and organizations, we uphold the UNCRC principles and promote children's rights within our community.

We continuously evaluate and enhance our commitment to child safety to ensure the highest level of effectiveness and compliance with evolving best practices.

 

At Little Sophia Kindergarten, we are devoted to fostering a safe, inclusive, and culturally sensitive environment where all children can flourish, learn, and reach their full potential.