Centre Manager (BestStart Te Whariki)
BestStart Te Whāriki is seeking an experienced, passionate, and people‑focused Centre Manager to lead our energetic and dedicated team. If you’re ready to take the next step in your leadership journey and make a meaningful impact on tamariki, whānau, and kaiako, this is your opportunity. At BestStart Te Whāriki, we celebrate uniqueness, connection, and community every day.
Our Place – Te Whāriki
At BestStart Te Whāriki, we honour the rich history of Lincoln — from its rural beginnings to the thriving, innovative community it is today. Through excursions, storytelling, and exploration of local landmarks, we help tamariki understand the values that shape this place: resilience, collaboration, and deep respect for the land.
Our practice embraces Whanaungatanga, Manaakitanga, Kaitiakitanga, and Whakatoi, ensuring every child feels a sense of belonging and empowerment.
What Makes Us Special
Our centre is a warm, multicultural environment with four age‑specific classrooms, each designed to feel intimate, homely, and responsive to the needs of small groups of tamariki. We build strong, trusting relationships with whānau.
Guided by RIE/Pikler and Reggio Emilia philosophies, our experienced team supports each child’s individual learning journey with respect, curiosity, and care.
Why BestStart?
At BestStart, we are committed to being a progressive, adaptable leader in the ECE sector. We proudly offer FULL pay parity, recognising the incredible impact our teachers and leaders make every day.
Professional Growth & Support
- Whare Ako online learning
- Coaching and mentoring tailored to your leadership role
- Leadership pathways for emerging and experienced leaders
- Opportunities to grow your career and learn something new
- Discounted childcare
Prove yourself in the Centre Manager role and you may be invited into our Independent Centre Manager Programme, giving you autonomy to run your centre your way — with rewards for strong outcomes.
Health & Wellbeing
Your wellbeing matters to us. We offer:
- Subsidised health insurance
- Free annual flu vaccinations
- Confidential EAP counselling
- A comprehensive wellbeing programme
- Sick leave from day one
- An extra week of leave after 10 years of service
About the Role
As Centre Manager, you’ll be a high‑impact leader who ensures exceptional learning outcomes for tamariki and smooth day‑to‑day operations. You’ll report to an Area Manager and thrive on building strong relationships with children, whānau, kaiako, and the wider community.
This is a permanent, full‑time role (40 hours, Monday–Friday).
At Te Whāriki, you’ll lead a centre known for its warm, homely feel and strong whānau partnerships. Our transition evenings, mascot rituals, and personalised learning approach create a close‑knit community where tamariki feel safe, supported, and inspired.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a leader who is committed to making a real difference and who brings proven Centre Manager experience to the role. You will also bring:
- BEd/Dip Teaching Level 7 (ECE) and a current practising certificate
- Strong understanding of child‑led curriculum and pedagogy
- Excellent knowledge of ECE Regulations, Te Whāriki, and compliance expectations
- A deep commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in everyday practice
- Proven coaching skills and the ability to grow others
- A mindset for innovation and simplifying systems
- A passion for building meaningful relationships
Ready to Join Us? Click Apply Now, or contact our Talent Specialist Emma Poole on 027 1800 1747 for a confidential chat.
Become part of a centre that values growth, collaboration, and the joy of teaching. We can’t wait to welcome you to BestStart Te Whāriki.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
