NOW HIRING: ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

Small World Learning Centre (SWLC) | Bridgewater, Nova Scotia

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Compensation: Salary plus benefits as per the Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development's pay scale and benefit package
Required Classification: Nova Scotia ECE Level 2 or Level 3

Help Us Shape the Future of Early Childhood Education!

Are you an experienced Early Childhood Educator who is passionate about leadership, inspiring educators, and providing exceptional early learning experiences for children? Small World Learning Centre is seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic, and collaborative Assistant Director to join our leadership team in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia.

Established in 1978, SWLC is a non-profit, licensed child care organization serving children from 18 months to 12 years of age. We are committed to providing high-quality, inclusive early learning and child care that supports the well-being, curiosity, creativity, and development of every child. We have two child care centres next door to each other at 352 & 366 York Street, Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. Our programs are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, with a focus on forest and nature play. We are looking for a leader who shares our commitment to quality early childhood education and wants to make a meaningful difference.

About the Position

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Assistant Director supports the daily operations, program quality, and organizational effectiveness of SWLC. This position works collaboratively with the SWLC Admin team -Executive Director, Centre Director, Assistant Director, educators, children, families, and community partners to maintain a positive, safe, inclusive, and professional learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

Program Quality and Child Development

- Support the planning, implementation, and evaluation of engaging, developmentally appropriate early learning programs.
- Promote inclusive practices that support children's individual strengths, interests, abilities, and needs.
- Encourage play-based, inquiry-driven, and nature-based learning experiences.
- Support compliance with Nova Scotia child care licensing requirements, health and safety standards, and program policies.

Staff Leadership and Professional Development

- Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to educators and other team members.
- Encourage teamwork, collaboration,



professional growth, and positive workplace relationships.
- Assist with staff orientation, training records, scheduling, and daily staffing needs.
- Support the implementation of organizational policies and address operational concerns appropriately.

Daily Operations and Administration

- Monitor daily staffing ratios and support compliance with licensing regulations.
- Assist with enrolment, waitlist management, and family communications.
- Maintain accurate, confidential records and ensure required documentation is completed.
- Support purchasing, inventory, facility maintenance, and health and safety checks.
- Assist with administrative and financial processes as directed by the Executive Director.

Family and Community Partnerships

- Build respectful, collaborative relationships with children, families, educators, and community partners.
- Promote a welcoming environment that values diversity, equity, inclusion, and family engagement.
- Work with families and other professionals to support children's learning, development, and individual needs.
- Help connect families with appropriate community resources when needed.

Organizational Leadership

- Assist the Admin team with implementing policies, procedures, and organizational goals.
- Demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, initiative, and confidentiality.
- Provide leadership and decision-making support when the Executive Director is absent.
- Contribute to continuous improvement and the ongoing development of high-quality early learning programs.

Qualifications and Experience

The successful candidate will have:

- A Diploma in Early Childhood Education and a current Nova Scotia ECE Level 2 or Level 3 classification.
- A minimum of five years of experience in a licensed child care setting.
- Administration certificate.
- Administration, leadership or mentoring experience.
- Current First Aid and CPR certification, as required.
- A satisfactory Criminal/Vulnerable Record Check and Child Abuse Register Check,



as required by applicable legislation and licensing requirements.
- Knowledge of Nova Scotia child care licensing regulations, early learning practices, health and safety requirements, and inclusion principles.
- Strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Computer proficiency, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, and electronic record keeping.
- The ability to manage competing priorities, adapt to changing needs, and work effectively in a busy child care environment.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is:

- A positive, approachable, and supportive leader.
- Passionate about high-quality early childhood education and the professional development of educators.
- Committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment for all children and families.
- Organized, proactive, flexible, and able to take initiative.
- An effective communicator who builds trust and works collaboratively.
- Dedicated to professional ethics, confidentiality, and continuous learning.
- Enthusiastic about outdoor learning and the value of connecting children with nature.

What We Offer

- A full-time, permanent leadership opportunity within an established community-based non-profit organization.
- Salary based on qualifications and experience as per NS wage scale and benefit package.
- Employee benefits - sick and flex time - centres are open 7:30 to 5:00 pm.
- The prospect to work alongside a dedicated team of early childhood professionals.
- Opportunities to contribute to program development, staff mentorship, and organizational growth.
- A workplace that values relationships, collaboration, inclusion, and children's natural curiosity.
- The opportunity to make a lasting difference for children and families in the South Shore community.

How to Apply

Please submit your résumé and cover letter outlining your qualifications, experience, and interest in the position to:

Email: [email protected]
Attention: Donna Stapleton

Application Deadline: November 6, 2026

Small World Learning Centre
Bridgewater, Nova Scotia

Small World Learning Centre is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. We encourage applications from qualified candidates who share our commitment to quality early learning and child care. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

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