Head Teacher (BestStart Te Whariki)
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Teacher to lead our Tui Room – someone who brings heart, strong leadership, and innovative thinking to our centre whānau.
About Us
BestStart Te Whāriki is a purpose-built centre located in the heart of the Te Whāriki subdivision in Lincoln. We’re just a short walk from schools, parks, and the local library – providing excellent opportunities for regular neighbourhood excursions. Our centre has well-established community connections and works closely with local services and whānau to create a rich, inclusive learning environment.
Our philosophy blends the principles of Te Whāriki, Te Ao Māori, and Reggio Emilia, focusing on child-led learning, strong relationships, and celebrating the uniqueness of every child. We are proud of our multicultural identity, with three over-two classrooms including our beautiful Tui Room – a prep school environment for tamariki aged 3.5 to 5 years.
Our team is kind, experienced, and supportive. We value collaboration, intentional teaching, and creating inspiring spaces where curiosity and creativity thrive. We're now looking for an exceptional Head Teacher to join us.
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for a qualified and registered ECE teacher with strong leadership qualities and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for tamariki. You will have:
- A Level 7 ECE or Primary teaching qualification and current NZ Teaching Certification
- Proven leadership experience or readiness to step into a leadership role
- Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki, child-led learning, and learning through play
- Experience or understanding of Reggio Emilia philosophy
- The ability to lead curriculum planning, assessment, and internal evaluation
- Expertise in inclusive practices that recognise and respond to the diverse learning needs of all tamariki, including neurodivergent learners, dual language learners, and those requiring extra support
- A passion for building social-emotional competence and school readiness
- Strong coaching, mentoring, and communication skills
- A warm, community-focused approach to teaching and leadership
Why Choose BestStart?
At BestStart, we recognise the value of our Teachers and the incredible work they do. When you join us, you'll benefit from:
- Full Pay Parity
- Discounted childcare
- Subsidised health insurance and free annual flu vaccinations
- Employee Assistance Programme for confidential support
- Leadership pathways and ongoing professional development
- Fully funded Teacher Certification
- $2000 referral bonus for referring a qualified teacher
- One week of additional leave after 10 years of service
Ready to Apply? If you’re ready to lead with passion, build strong relationships, and make a meaningful difference in a centre grounded in manaakitanga, ako, and whanaungatanga — we’d love to hear from you.
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
