Head Teacher (BestStart Elles Road)
At BestStart Elles Road, we're on the lookout for a passionate and inspiring Qualified and Registered Teacher to join our supportive and close-knit team as Head Teacher of our Kauri Room.
Located in the heart of South City, Invercargill, our centre is deeply connected to the local community. We love getting involved in community events and creating meaningful opportunities for tamariki and whānau to engage and grow alongside us.
Our Kauri Room caters for children aged 3.5 to 5 years, with a strong focus on school readiness through our well-established Set for School programme. We also offer our popular Wild @ Heart Bush Programme, which encourages exploration, resilience, environmental awareness, and a love of the outdoors.
At BestStart Elles Road, building responsive and reciprocal relationships with tamariki, whānau, and our community is at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on creating an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed.
Why Work for BestStart?
At BestStart, we're committed to being a progressive and responsive leader in the ECE sector, where teachers are recognised for the positive impact they make in children's lives.
Our benefits include:
- Full Pay Parity
- Discounted childcare
- Subsidised health insurance
- Free flu vaccinations
- Confidential counselling through EAP
- Leadership development programmes for current and aspiring leaders
- Multiple career pathways with wrap-around support to help you grow your career, your way
- Refer a Qualified Teacher and receive $2,000*
- One week of additional leave after 10 years of service
About the Role
This is a permanent, full-time position (40 hours per week, Monday to Friday).
As Head Teacher of our Kauri Room, you'll lead a passionate team in delivering high-quality learning experiences that foster confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning.
Our Set for School programme takes a play-based approach to preparing tamariki for the transition to primary school. Through meaningful learning opportunities, we build strong foundations while strengthening connections with children, whānau, local schools, and the wider community.
Our Wild @ Heart Bush Programme supports children to explore and connect with nature while embracing our commitment to Kaitiakitanga (guardianship of our environment). With a spacious and engaging outdoor environment, tamariki are encouraged to challenge themselves physically, develop independence, and build resilience.
Role Requirements
We're seeking a natural leader who shares our values and vision, with a passion for supporting both children and teachers to thrive.
You'll bring:
- BEd/Dip Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary) and current Teacher Certification
- Strong knowledge of programme planning, assessment, curriculum, and pedagogy
- Sound understanding of Te Whāriki and current ECE regulations, with a commitment to maintaining high compliance standards
- A passion for quality teaching and learning
- Proven leadership capability or a desire to step into a leadership role and continue growing professionally
Why Join Us?
Joining BestStart means becoming part of a whānau where innovation thrives, successes are celebrated, and every team member is valued. Bring your authentic self to work each day and help us make a lasting difference in the lives of our tamariki and whānau.
How to Apply: Click the Apply Now button below, or reach out to your local Talent Specialist Emma Poole for a confidential chat on 027 1800 1747. We'd love to hear from you.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
