Family Day Care Contract Educator

City of Greater Geelong

Family Day Care – Contract Educator

SPECIFICATION

Family Day Care Contract Educator

SERVICE: Provision of Family Day Care

CONTRACT TITLE: / Family Day Care Contract Educator–
Full time / part time
Vacation / before and after school
Evenings / weekends / overnight (work related)
CLASSIFICATION: / Contractor - FDCContract Educators enter into a Service Agreement (reviewed annually or as required)
CONTRACT SUPERVSION: / CITY OF GREATER GEELONG
Family Day Care, Family Services
DATE APPROVED: / 1 July, 2015

Purpose:

To work in partnership with parents to provide high quality education and care within a home based care and education environment on behalf of the City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care service.

To work co-operatively with a team of Early Childhood and allied professionals both from within the Coordination Unit and visiting professionals to provide a safe, caring and educational environment for children attending the service.

To plan, implement and evaluate developmentally appropriate educational programs that reflect children’s needs and meets the requirements of the City of Greater Geelong, National Regulations and Commonwealth Government Guidelines, including the Early Years Learning and Development Frameworks and the National Quality Standard.

THE CITY OF GREATER GEELONG FAMILY DAY CARE SERVICE:

The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care Service Coordination Unit is located on the second floor of Ariston House 245-249 Pakington Street, Newtown 3220. The service is managed by the Family Services Unit Manager, Early Childhood Education and Care Coordinator and Family Day Care Team Leader. Contract Educators are supported by 3 part time support Officers including a Educational Leader, a Family Liaison and Inclusion Support Officer, and a Compliance Officer

Our Vision:
The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care Service insists on providing high quality, inclusive, innovative and educational care environments for the children and families of the Greater Geelong region.

Our Philosophy:

“The family is both the fundamental unit of society as well as the root of culture. It is a perpetual source of encouragement, advocacy, assurance, and emotional refuelling that empowers a child to venture with confidence into the greater world and to become all that he can be.” MARIANNE E. NEIFERT

The City of Greater Geelong Family Day Care unit supports and respects the uniqueness of every family, child and individual and actively works to promote a nurturing environment that mentors, champions and supports the rights of all.

Our scheme supports the EYLF and the VEYLF and actively seeks to ensure the outcomes are promoted and fostered throughout the service.

Identity

We recognise and respect that children have their own sense of agency, that they are capable, active learners and that they have the right to a holistic, non-biased, non-judgemental, caring environment in which to grow and learn.
Small group numbers ensure all children are valued as individuals; they are actively encouraged to participate in and develop their own learning program.
We respect that parents are experts in knowing their own children and we actively encourage them to participate in their children’s early years education.
We acknowledge the strengths, knowledge, culture, diversity and experience of our Contract Educators and whenever possible encourage them to share these skills with the children, staff, parents and other Contract Educators.
We ensure every person has the opportunity to be heard and the opportunity to contribute to the scheme, its policies and processes through a variety of media.

Community

Children develop a sense of belonging to a community when they have access and a connection to their community. Family Day Care provides this through excursions to local play areas, events, library sessions, playgroups, kindergarten sessions, toy libraries and school.
The promotion of sustainable play experiences and practices supports children’s understanding of the importance of protecting our fragile environment.
The inclusion of extended family, both for the family in care and the Contract Educators’ family allows children to mix with a variety of people from different age groups and cultures.
The use of mentoring sessions, professional development, playgroups and social events for Contract Educators assists them in feeling part of a wider supportive community.

Wellbeing

The ability of parents and children to bond with one Contract Educator in a recognisable environment allows for a closer relationship to be formed and for children to settle more quickly into care.
The scheme actively promotes a well rounded, holistic approach to working with children that involves having fun, active outdoor play, exploration of nature, time for relaxation and rest, multi-media experiences and spontaneous play as well as structured, thoughtful programming.
Contract Educators provide flexibility within a routine and limits and expectations are clear and consistent.
Flexibility within a daily routine ensures children have time to rest when required, eat nutritiously and regularly and that programs can be altered to reflect an individual or group’s interests.
Co ordination unit conducts regular home visits to promote open communication and support to Contract Educators.
Easy phone internet access and open two-way conversation allows Contract Educators and parents time to discuss issues or concerns and have a confidential sounding board if required.
Access to other professional bodies that may offer support or assistance to children, families or Contract Educators is supported and promoted.
A positive, respectful dialogue between all parties, that recognises our successes and acknowledges our commitment to high quality early years education.

Learning

Small group numbers, documented observations, individual planning and play-based learning programs ensure children are given every opportunity to develop at their own pace.
Each child is seen as a successful learner. Experiences are designed to support children’s natural curiosity and programs are designed to support and extend children’s development and interests.
Regular information both electronically and via newsletters will be used to support parents.
Regular professional development is offered in a variety of ways to extend an Contract Educator’s knowledge base and to ensure best practice.
Highly experienced support staff are available for guiding and mentoring Contract Educators.

Communication

Children are actively encouraged to have a voice within the service. Their opinions, thoughts, likes, dislikes and interests are valued and considered a vital part of the programs that are provided.
Parents, families and community members are encouraged to provide feedback at various times throughout their period in the service, in writing, via email, face to face and through the use of customer surveys.
The use of electronic communication is considered an important part of sharing information and creating an environmentally sustainable scheme, but we also respect the rights of those who chose more traditional means of communication.
We respect that we serve a multicultural community and have access to many support services to ensure all families and children feel included.
We believe families, children and Contract Educators have the right to contribute to the scheme, its policies and procedures and seek to provide such opportunities.

The Family Day Care Unit is proud to work in partnership with the COGG , DET, DOE, ACECQA & FDC Australia, all of our wonderful Contract Educators and families and of course our incredible children.

Our service proudly acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we work , live and learn the Wathuarung people and their Elders past and present

We also respect and acknowledge past staff, Contract Educators and families for their commitment and passion for Family Day Care and recognise their vast contributions.

“Ora na azu nwa" It takes a village to raise a child – ancient African saying

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provision of Education and Care

Ensure an inclusive, safe, caring and educational environment exists for all children and that the health and well being of each child is a priority.
Provide, implement and evaluate age and developmentally appropriate educational programs for all children, in consultation with parents/carers and other professionals, individually and in group situations.
To provide programs which assist children with additional needs or vulnerabilities to develop their skills and abilities within a supportive learning environment.
Provide a standard of care which is in accordance with Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012, Children’s Services Act 1996, Early Years Learning & Development Framework Victoria, Early Years Learning Framework for Australia,and National Quality Standard.
To provide culturally responsive programs and responses to all children, within the context of their families and communities.
Maintain detailed developmental observations and records for each individual child to be used as a basis for individual and group programming.

Child-Centred Practice

Children must be supervised at ALL times
Provide an inspiring, stimulating, flexible, comfortable, inclusive and hygienic learning environment for children aged from 0 – 12 years.
Liaise with parents/carers in relation to the needs and education of their children, and support families in their parenting role.
Respond to enquiries relating to the programs, procedures and activities within the service.
Liaise with other Contract Educators, professionals within external agencies and the Coordination Unit in regard to the development and needs of individual children and their families.
Ensure confidentiality, professionalism and discretion is maintained at all times, in line with legislative and organisational policy requirements.
Act as a professional resource for parents, other Contract Educators and the broader community in relation to community and support options for children and their families.
Establish effective and respectful working relationships with children, parents, other Contract Educators and external professionals.
Supervise, mentor and support students and participate in assessment and consultation with relevant training providers.
Facilitate active play for all children both indoors and outdoors.
Ensure all children using the service have a strong connection to the local community.
Children’s interests and cultures must be included in the programming and the learning environment.
Children’s programming supports sustainable practices and incorporates natural play materials where ever possible.
Acknowledgement and respect for the local indigenous cultures and traditions is integrated into the program

TeamBuilding

Maintain a co-operative and flexible attitude towards the development of your professional skills
Assist in establishment of daily procedures, objectives and philosophies for the service.
Act as professional resource to other Contract Educators in the sharing of program ideas, educational expertise and information exchange.
Attend Contract Educator meetings and participate in professional development as required.

Administrative Support

Respond to enquires from new families in relation to vacancies.
Orientate and enrol families within the service
Liaise with the Coordination Unit regarding the purchase of new equipment.
Maintain all required documentation including relevant training certificates, record of care sheets, allowable absence forms, accident/injury/illness forms, excursion forms etc.
Keep comprehensive children’s records, in line with the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012.
Ensure all documentation is available to the service at the designated times or as requested

Professional Development

Assist with monthly policy reviews.
Maintain up-to-date professional knowledge, resources and skills through in-service education, multi-disciplinary meetings and other professional development opportunities.
Actively participate and maintain a commitment to the National Quality Standards.
Promote and practice The Australian Early Childhood Association Code of Ethics
Adherence to all Council’s policies and procedures as relevant to this position.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:

Essential:

Certificate 111 of Children’s Services, Diploma of Children’s Services or Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.Must also include all items listed under Qualifications and Experience.
Sound knowledge of the development of children in the 0-6 years age group and proven ability to plan appropriate programs in relation to the Early Years Learning and Development Frameworks.
Ability to identify Health and Safety issues pertaining to the work environment.
Demonstrated and well developed communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to establish effective professional relationships with Coordination Unit Staff in relation to the education and needs of children and their families.
Ability to ensure confidentiality, professionalism and discretion are maintained at all times.
Ability to demonstrate initiative and flexibility.
Current Certificates pertaining to Level 2 First Aid, CPR, Emergency Asthma Training, Anaphylaxis Management.
Current Employee Working with Children Check and Criminal Record Check ( less than 6 mths old)
Clear personal philosophy around the care and education of preschool children

Desirable:

Several years experience in a Family Day Care, childcare, kindergarten or pre-school setting.
An understanding of the potential benefits to children and their families of Family Day Care
Ability to provide guidance to a positive role model to students and other Contract Educators.

Clear understanding of the requirements of running a small business with family day care as your primary focus.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND EXTENT OF AUTHORITY:

Responsible for the effective planning, implementation and evaluation of child focused programs within the service.
Responsible for informing the Coordination Unit of any serious incidents,issues, difficulties and opportunities that may arise in relation to the service.
May supervise and mentor students, with the approval of and under the guidance of the Coordination Unit.
Maintain records of appropriate educational programs based on written observations and evaluations of children’s development, interests and needs.
Undertake duties in accordance with all legislative requirements and Council policy.
Provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for children.
Contribute to the creation of a welcoming environment for families using the service.
Accountable for creating and capturing accurate and complete records of the business activities related to this position, in accordance with approved policy and procedures. This is applicable to both hardcopy and electronic information, including email.
Assist the service by contributing to newsletters, reviewing the Servicephilosophy,policies and objectives, in order to promote the growth, development and well-being of all children on a daily and long term basis.
Participate in consultations with, case management meetings and practice discussions with relevant external professionals in collaboration with the coordination unit and families.
Maintain positive and effective communication with parents, Coordination Unit staff, visitors, other agencies and government departments.

JUDGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING:

To bring to the attention of the Coordination Unit, any Health and Safety or operational issues pertaining to their work environment.
Make decisions regarding children’s development, needs and well-being.

SPECIALIST SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

Thorough knowledge of the development of children in the 0-6 years age group (within the context of their families and communities) and proven ability to plan appropriate programs.
Well developed skills in observing and interpreting children’s behavior and demonstrated ability to relate effectively to young children.
Sound knowledge of Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012, Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010, related legislation and Council’s OHS Policies, National Quality Standard, and a sound knowledge of the Early Years Learning and Development Frameworks including My Time Our Place
Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate hygiene practices and the nutritional requirements of children from a variety of age groups
An high level of literacy and numeracy skills
An intermediate level of English is required
A strong knowledge of information technology and daily access to email and internet

BEHAVIOURS:

Ability to manage own time, organise tasks
Assist with the supervision and mentoring of students.
Ability to work alone
Balance personal and family needs whilst working from home

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS:

Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.
Demonstrated ability to be enthusiastic and self-motivated.
Demonstrated ability to work ethically at all times.
Well developed communication skills.
Positive approach to shared decision-making across a range of professional backgrounds and experiences.
An understanding of and respect for diverse social and cultural values andattitudes in relation to parenting and caring for children.
Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with Contract Educators and Coordination Unit staff from a range of professional backgrounds.
Ability to guide and positively role model to students
Ability to demonstrate Integrity, Responsibility, Innovation and Respect in all aspects of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

Certificate 111 in Children’s Services, Diploma in Children’s Services or Bachelor of Early Childhood Education as required in accordance with Education and Care Services National Regulations 2012.
Current Level 2 First Aid and updated CPR.
Anaphylaxis Awareness (21827VIC) or First Aid Management of Anaphylaxis (21659VIC).
Current Working With Children’s Check.
Current Police Check (must be less than 6 months from date of issue).
Experience in a family day care, childcare, kindergarten, nannying or pre-school setting is desirable.

SPECIFIC HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

A medical examination is required prior to commencement.
Participate, where required, in the reporting of health, safety and wellbeing issues.
Manual handling tasks involved.
Dealing with difficult clients and situations including

Reporting signs of abuse, neglect or family violence to the Coordination Unit as soon as identified