Job Ref #: ECDPA202603
Industry: Academic
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1

Job Description

Cotlands is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO) committed to creating access to quality play-based early learning experiences through toy libraries and early learning playgroups. We capacitate adults working with children and educate the parents of children on a variety of topics related to early childhood development.
Join the passionate team at this leading NGO, with a strong national footprint. The organisation is well established and has been in operation for more than 89 years.

 

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Early Childhood Development (ECD) Assistant to join our ECCE Hub in the West Rand. The successful candidate will support the implementation of quality early learning programmes for young children (birth to five years), ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment.

Job Requirements

Key Responsibilities

1. Child Development & Learning Support

• Support children’s development across cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and language domains.
• Assist in planning and facilitating age-appropriate, play-based learning experiences.
• Help identify developmental delays and report concerns appropriately.

2. Curriculum Implementation

• Support the implementation of the National Curriculum Framework (Birth to Four) and CAPS (where applicable).
• Assist in preparing learning materials and classroom activities.

3. Health, Safety & Wellbeing

• Ensure a safe, clean, and hygienic environment.
• Follow child protection and safeguarding policies in line with South African regulations.
• Support children’s nutritional and daily care needs.

4. Learning Environment Support

• Help create an inclusive, engaging, and culturally responsive classroom environment.
• Assist in setting up indoor and outdoor learning spaces.

5. Observation & Reporting

• Support the observation and documentation of children’s development.
• Maintain accurate records (attendance, incidents, progress notes).

6. Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with teachers, centre managers, and support staff.
• Engage positively with parents and caregivers.

Minimum Requirements

• ECD NQF Level 4 Certificate (required).
• Must live in Princess, Roodepoort, or surrounding West Rand areas.

Advantageous Qualifications

• ECD NQF Level 5 (Higher Certificate or Diploma).
• First Aid Level 1 certification.
• Training in Child Protection/Safeguarding.
• CAPS and NCF training.
• Inclusive Education or Special Needs support training.

Key Competencies

• Understanding of early childhood development.
• Knowledge of play-based learning approaches.
• Basic assessment and observation skills.
• Classroom support and management skills.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and nutrition practices.
• Inclusive and culturally responsive practices.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Administrative and record-keeping ability.

Personal Attributes

• Warm, patient, and nurturing.
• Reliable, ethical, and trustworthy.
• Passionate about working with young children.
• Creative and adaptable.
• Strong sense of responsibility for child wellbeing.