Department of Education

Director: Early Childhood Care & Education Directorate

Salary or stipendR1 317 384 – R1 551 807 per annum (Level 13), an all-inclusive salary package. The total package includes 70% basic salary, a state contribution to the Government Employee Pension Fund and flexible portion that may be 193 structured in terms of the applicable guidelines. This appointment is subject to the signing of an Annual Performance Agreement and obtaining a security clearance.

The Department of Education is looking for a Director: Early Childhood Care & Education Directorate. This is a permanent role based in Free State.

Bloemfontein, Head OfficeApplications close 16 November 2026

Source: DPSA Circular 39 of 2026Post 39/253, page 192

Reference number: PS16/2026/01
Appointment: Permanent
Province: Free State
Closing date: 16 November 2026
Job level: Valid Code B/EB Driver’s licence. Preference will
Centre: Bloemfontein, Head Office

Experience

An applicable qualification at NQF level 7 as recognised by South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). 5 Years of experience at a middle/senior managerial

Key responsibilities

Ensure effective and efficient coordination and overall management of the Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) service in the province.
To manage the implementation of strategic plan, Annual Performance Plan and the Operational Plan.
To manage the performance of the unit in term of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 pertaining to partial care and Child Protection as well as the implementation of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) and all other applicable legislations in the ECCE sector.
Ensure proper financial management and coordination in the ECCE sector in line with the PFMA and related policies.
Monitor and ensure timely transfer payments to ECDs.
Ensure proper planning and coordination of professional development of Social Workers and ECCE practitioners in the ECD sector.
To ensure that Partial care database/registers are in place and monitored.
Ensure that all ECCE service is uploaded on the agreed upon Learner Management System.
Ensure that capacity building support programmes and training are conducted and monitored for ECCE management and governance and output assessed.
Ensure that the district quarterly review sessions are arranged and guidance is provided on the expected outcomes.
Ensure the expansion of the ECCE service within the province by providing the necessary support across the districts.
Facilitate Inter-Sectoral Coordination to improve and better the ECCE service.
Manage the provision of partial care facilities and programmes in the Free State.
Manage the provision of Early Childhood Care and Education programmes.
Develop and manage the implementation of norms and standards for Early Childhood Care & Education Centre’s.
Manage a comprehensive electronic information Management system.
Manage funding of partial care and Early Childhood Care & Education facilities and programmes.

Additional details

Grade: Provincial

How to apply

Apply online using the application link below. Follow the application directions in the official circular.

Application method: Online
Enquiries: Mr. ET Montso
Telephone: (051) 404 8426

Please note

All applicants must login/register to apply for positions.
The applicant’s profile on the eRecruitment is equivalent to the newly approved Z83, and it is the responsibility of applicants to ensure their profiles are fully completed or their applications will not be considered, as per the DPSA Practice

Go to application