Position Overview

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

This is a permanent 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

The above position reports to the Education and Participation Manager and entails the performance of the following key responsibilities.

Daily

• Pick-up pre-packed meals from our caterer, as arranged.
• Hand out meals to learners, which can be eaten in the vehicle before lessons.
• Ensure that the vehicle remains in a clean and tidy condition. Black bags will be provided.
• Ensure that learners get safely to and from their lessons. This entails fetching the learners from their respective schools/houses, travelling with them to the venue, escorting them to their lessons, and vice versa.
• Ensure that learners attend their lessons.
• Assist Foundation Studio Teachers as needed with venue/room setup and photocopying tasks.

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

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

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

Communication and Reporting

• Maintain open and effective communication with the Education and Participation Manager.
• Report any concerns or issues promptly to the Education and Participation Manager.
• Education and Participation Manager will communicate with parents

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

Documentation and Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate and confidential records of:
• Child attendance
• Incidents, injuries, or behavioural notes
• Any notable interactions

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 grenvillem@capetownopera.co.za

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