THE ORGANIZATION
Centres for Early Learning is a leader in early childhood education, dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families for nearly 50 years. Fully licensed by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services and Toronto Children’s Services, our organization operates nine childcare centres serving communities in various high-need areas of Toronto, Ontario. We offer programs for infants to children up to 12 years of age, providing a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment where learning and development thrive. Our purpose is to inspire smiles by building experiences and shaping communities. Through our collaborative approach, we work closely with families, educators, and communities to deliver high-quality care and education that fosters growth, curiosity, and lifelong learning.
THE ROLE
The Centre Designate is responsible for educating, stimulating, influencing, and caring for the children while ensuring regulatory and licensing compliance. Their primary responsibilities include maintaining a high-quality environment, assessing and observing the individual needs of every child, and overseeing child-to-staff ratios and safety protocols. The Centre Designate also provides guidance and leadership to staff, serving as a point of contact for classroom management and immediate concerns. Additionally, they maintain open and honest communication with parents, handle inquiries and incidents with professionalism and empathy, and uphold confidentiality regarding sensitive information. Throughout their role, they exemplify professionalism and work towards fostering a supportive and enriching environment for both children and staff.
SUCCESS
The successful candidate will support the Centre Director in operating the centre in accordance with the Child Care and Early Years Act and in alignment with the organization’s core values. The successful candidate will also ensure the effective management of day-to-day operations, lead the center staff by example, and uphold high-quality care for the children and families we serve. Additionally, the candidate will foster a culture of collaboration and growth, drive regulatory compliance, and actively engage with parents and staff to create a supportive and enriching environment for all. Their commitment to professionalism and excellence will be crucial in enhancing the overall success of the center.
EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS
- Diploma or Degree in Early Childhood Education from a recognized Ontario Post-Secondary Institution or AECEO Equivalency
- OR: has a post-secondary degree in a similar field (i.e., Child and Youth Care, Recreation and Leisure, Social Service Work, Bachelor of Education, etc.)
- Registered member of the College of ECE in good standing
- All staff working with children are required under the Child Care and Early Year’s Act to have a valid standard first aid certification including infant and child cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) & Up-to-date immunization record prior to the first day of work
- Job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of Criminal Reference Check within the first four months and every three years thereafter.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Regulatory and Licensing Compliance
- Demonstrates a clear understanding of the Child Care and Early Years Act (CCEYA) and other local regulations, ensuring the center remains in full compliance during their time in charge.
- Monitors child-to-staff ratios, safety protocols, and health regulations, taking corrective actions as needed.
- Report any issues or concerns that may arise in accordance with proper procedures.
- Responsible for completing the following checklists and responsibilities on a monthly basis:
- First Aid Box, medication books and medication box checks
- Monitoring the safe arrival and dismissal of students as per CFEL’s policy
- Ordering of paper and cleaning supplies as needed
- Ensure the completion of the daily playground inspection reports and follows up as needed
- Supports with the daily log book as per CCEYA
- Handles ordering of Wholesome Kids Catering orders on a weekly basis
- Other administrative tasks as assigned by the Centre Director
Staff Leadership and Support
- Oversees the centre while supervising and supporting the centre’s teaching staff in absence of the Centre Director.
- Provides guidance and leadership to staff members, ensuring classroom and operational issues are handled efficiently and in accordance with center policies.
- Acts as a point of contact for staff, providing support on classroom management, child behavior, and other immediate concerns.
- Understands emergency procedures and can act as the primary decision-maker during drills or actual emergencies in the absence of the Centre Director.
- Attend and contribute to staff meetings and in-house professional development whether during or after regular work hours.
- co-ordinate and lead her/his team in planning and implementing a program and daily activities
- Provide supervision and guidance of daily activities, field trips, and special activities.
- Works cooperatively as a team member, encourages others to do likewise, and consistently maintains a positive attitude.
- Incorporate the four (4) foundations of learning – Belonging, Well-being, Engagement, Expression into daily programming to ensure optimal learning and healthy development of the children
- Report any issues or concerns that may arise in accordance with proper procedures.
- Direct and participate with children in all planned activities.
Communication and Parent Interaction:
- Communicates effectively with parents, handling questions, concerns, and any incidents that arise with professionalism and empathy.
- Provides updates to the Center Director about key interactions with families or staff issues upon their return.
- Maintains confidentiality regarding staff, children, and family information, and handles sensitive situations with discretion.
- Models professionalism in interactions with staff, parents, and children, setting an example for the team.
- Begins engaging in office administrative and operational training to develop skills in center management, including enrollment, scheduling, and resource coordination.
- Uses the Assistant Director Training List to guide and track progress, ensuring alignment with the center’s long-term goals and administrative requirements.
- Use well-developed interpersonal, and relationship-building skills; ability to establish rapport and excellent communication with members, staff, and parents.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of ELECT, How Does Learning Happen, and CCEYA.
- Knowledge of AQI an asset.
- Flexible in working with all age groups (Infants to School Age)
- Good communication skills and willingness to learn about children with challenging behaviours. Experience working with children with challenging behaviours an asset
- Excellent teamwork skills
- Confident and flexible professionalism
- Knowledge of Health and Safety practices: i.e. emergency practices
COMPETENCIES
- CUSTOMER FOCUS: Demonstrates a strong customer orientation to enhance business performance.
- DECISION MAKING: Employs the right mix of analysis and experience to formulate sound judgments.
- TEAM COLLABORATION: Actively builds highly cohesive and empowered teams.
- GROWTH AND LEARNING: Develops self and others to increase professional knowledge and skills.
Centres for Early Learning is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment, where all individuals feel valued, respected and supported. Candidates requiring an accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact the Human Resources Department.
