Specialist Teaching and Research (STaR) Ltd is seeking an experienced, values-driven leader to join our team as the Manager, Early Childhood Specialist Education.

This is a unique opportunity to lead and grow STaR's work across early childhood specialist education, inclusive practice, workforce development and family support within early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings.

Working closely with the CEO and Head of Research & Education, this role will support the ongoing development of STaR's Early Years Program and broader early childhood strategy, contributing to improved outcomes for children, families and educators.

About STaR

STaR works across early years, school-aged and post-school settings to ensure progressive, meaningful and inclusive learning for people with disability.

Our work spans:

• Specialist and inclusive education
• Workforce development
• Family support
• Research and evaluation
• Advocacy and systems change

About the Role

The Manager, Early Childhood Specialist Education will lead work across:

• The ongoing development and delivery of the Early Years Program
• Specialist education supports for ECEC services
• Workforce capability building for educators and professionals
• Family support initiatives
• Research, evaluation and evidence-informed practice

The role combines:

• Strategic leadership
• Program development
• Coaching and mentoring
• Stakeholder engagement
• Advocacy and sector collaboration

You will work collaboratively with ECEC services, educators, allied health professionals, families, researchers and community partners to strengthen inclusive practice and meaningful participation for children with developmental concerns, delay and disability.

About You

We are looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about inclusion and early childhood education
• Strategic, collaborative and innovative
• Experienced in early childhood intervention and special education
• Confident leading teams and building partnerships
• Committed to evidence-informed and family-centred practice.

You will need to have:

• Bachelor of Early Childhood Education or Bachelor of Education (Primary) + Master of Special and Inclusive Education required
• 5yrs + leadership experience within early childhood, disability or education sectors
• Strong knowledge of early childhood intervention, inclusion and disability practice
• Knowledge of the NDIS, foundational supports and disability service systems
• Experience coaching and mentoring educators and professionals
• Highly developed communication and relationship-building skills

Experience in research, evaluation, systems change, or sector reform initiatives will be highly regarded.

Why Join STaR?

At STaR, you will be part of an organisation committed to innovation, inclusion and sector leadership.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Influence inclusive practice across ECEC settings
• Support educators, families and children in meaningful ways
• Contribute to research and evidence-building
• Help shape emerging approaches to foundational supports and early childhood inclusion

Australian work rights are required for this position.

A position description is attached.