This is a rare and high-impact leadership opportunity to shape the future of public preschool education across South Australia.

As President of the South Australian Preschool Directors Association (PDA), you will lead a respected professional body at a pivotal time—driving advocacy, strengthening sector voice, and supporting public education preschool leaders to deliver quality outcomes for all children.

Working closely with the PDA Board, the Department for Education, and key stakeholders, you will play a critical role in influencing policy, building professional capability, and championing the importance of early childhood education within the public education system.

About the Organisation
The South Australian Preschool Directors Association (PDA) is the peak body representing public education preschool directors across the state.

PDA is committed to:

• Serving its members
• for high-quality early childhood education within the public system
• Supporting and strengthening preschool leadership within the Department for Education, SA
• Providing professional learning and development opportunities for their PDA Members and the broader preschool leadership community
• Influencing policy and sector outcomes at a state level, both politically and within the Department for Education SA

Key Responsibilities
In this strategic leadership role, you will:

• Lead the strategic direction and operational delivery of the Association
• Advocate for public education preschool leadership and early childhood education at a state level
• Engage with senior stakeholders including the Department for education, sector leaders, and partner organisations
• Drive membership growth, engagement, and sector influence
• Facilitate professional learning, research, and leadership development initiatives
• Lead the development and implementation of the PDA Strategic Plan
• Ensure strong governance, financial management, and organisational sustainability
• Support effective Board operations and strategic decision-making

About You
You are a respected and credible leader within early childhood education, with the ability to influence, advocate, and bring people together.

You will bring:

• Experience in preschool leadership or senior roles within early childhood education
• A strong understanding of the South Australian early childhood landscape, Department policy, and the National Quality Framework
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including strategy, governance, and stakeholder engagement
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholders
• A commitment to public preschool education and advocacy
• The ability to lead change, influence outcomes, and support sector-wide improvement
• An understanding of the world of Associations and member engagement

Why This Role

• Shape the future of public early childhood education in South Australia
• Influence policy and sector direction at a Department and statewide level
• Lead a respected and purpose-driven professional association
• Work alongside senior leaders across Public education and the Department
• Flexible working arrangements are available

Employment Details

• Tenure: 2-year appointment (with potential extension)
• Salary: Aligned with Department for Education SC2 classification
• Type: Full-time equivalent (flexibility available)

Apply Now
Apply now via SEEK. For a confidential discussion, please contact Jaime at the Educators SA office 08 8463 5875

Applications close 2pm, Wed 15th April

The Position Description can be accessed here: https://educators-sa.sa.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/PDA-President-position-description.pdf