Company Overview

Cape Town Opera, which celebrates its 25th birthday in 2024, is one of the largest full-time performing arts institutions in South Africa and the only continuously active opera company on the African continent. The Company offers a diverse array of productions annually, from mainstage operas to musicals and concerts, catering to audiences of all ages.

Our role in championing South Africa’s exceptional vocal talent is crucial. We provide support and development opportunities through programmes like the National Schools Tour, the internationally award-winning Foundation Studio for high-school learners and the Judith Neilson Young Artist Programme for postgraduate singers, pianists and conductors.

As a recipient of numerous accolades, Cape Town Opera is a torchbearer for excellence, inclusivity and employment within the theatre and arts industry. The Company is dedicated to safeguarding opera as part of South Africa’s cultural heritage, a commitment that spans the entire theatre industry, from singers to set builders, fostering the incredible talent found in every corner of South Africa.

Position Overview

Cape Town Opera is looking for dedicated and nurturing Childminders to join our team and assist with taking care of a group of 43 children aged between 7 and 16. The ideal candidates will create a safe, engaging and enriching interactive environment for children to learn, relax and develop social skills. The Childminders will be responsible for overseeing rehearsal and performance activities, ensuring the well-being of each child, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

This is an ad hoc position requiring availability during evenings, weekends and school holidays. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine love of working with children, alongside the ability to support discipline, health and emotional well-being in a theatre context.

Applicant Requirements

The ideal applicant possesses the following:

• Matric Certificate (Grade 12)
• Minimum two years’ childcare experience, ideally in arts or educational settings
• Valid First Aid Level 1 Certificate
• Police Clearance Certificate issued by SAPS
• Proven ability to work effectively with children of different ages, backgrounds and abilities
• Basic knowledge of the Children’s Act and Occupational Health and Safety protocols
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Empathy, patience and emotional maturity
• Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure
• Confidence working collaboratively with a diverse team of staff and caregivers

Applicant Responsibilities

1. Supervision and Safety:

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children under your care
• Maintain a secure and child-friendly environment at all times
• Implement the required safety protocols and emergency procedures

1. Rehearsals and Performances

• Escort children to and from rehearsal and performance venues promptly and safely
• Ensure appropriate attire:
• closed-toe shoes when on stage
• costumes are worn and cared for correctly
• ensure costumes are returned and stored properly after use
• Maintain calm backstage conduct and support children’s focus

1. Health and Hygiene

• Supervise children during snack and meal breaks, ensuring safe and hygienic eating practices
• Encourage and support regular handwashing, especially before meals and after bathroom use
• Ensure all food waste is disposed of safely and in an environmentally responsible manner
• Be familiar with each child’s known allergies or health needs, and follow established emergency protocols if required

1. Communication and Reporting

• Maintain open and effective communication with Head of Education and Participation and Chorus Master
• Report any concerns or issues promptly to Head of Education and Participation
• Head of Education and Participation will communicate with parents

1. Behaviour Management and Inclusion

• Implement positive behaviour management techniques and should attempt to instil best practice theatre etiquette where appropriate
• Promote positive reinforcement, emotional support, and respectful behaviour in line with best practice in theatre and education
• Address behavioural challenges calmly and constructively, escalating as necessary
• Create an inclusive environment respectful of race, gender, culture, and ability

1. Documentation and Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate and confidential records of:
• Child attendance
• Incidents, injuries, or behavioural notes
• Any notable interactions
• Submit rehearsal and performance reports to the Head of Education and Participation.

1. Team Collaboration

• Work respectfully with other childminders and production staff to ensure a cohesive, child-centred team approach
• Participate in pre-production orientation and debriefing sessions as required

Application Procedure

This is a freelance, project-based position located at the Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town. Working hours vary based on production needs and will include after-hours commitments.

To apply, please submit:

• A short motivational letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role
• Your CV
• Copies of your First Aid certificate and SAPS Police Clearance
• At least two contactable references

Applications should be sent via email to geraldp@capetownopera.co.za .

Please note: only applicants who submit all the required documentation will be considered. All information will be treated in strict confidence.