Qualified Teacher (BestStart Te Whariki)

• Full Time
• Application Closes 15 Oct 2026
• Canterbury - Selwyn
• Kindergarten Teacher

Are you a passionate ECE teacher who values relationships, belonging, community, and child-led learning?

At BestStart Te Whāriki, we’re looking for a passionate and qualified teacher to join our supportive, collaborative team in a permanent fulltime position for 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday on a rotating roster. 

Our Reggio Emilia-inspired environment encourages curiosity, creativity, exploration, and a lifelong love of learning. You’ll create intentional learning experiences that reflect each child’s interests, strengths, culture, and identity, while supporting their confidence, independence, and growth mindset. We’re proud to connect tamariki with the rich history and community of Lincoln through local experiences, storytelling, and exploration. Our practice is grounded in Te Whāriki, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Whanaungatanga, Manaakitanga, Kaitiakitanga, and Whakatoi.

Why BestStart?

We offer FULL Pay Parity, along with:

• Supportive mentoring and induction.
• Ongoing professional learning through Whare Ako.
• Career and leadership development opportunities.
• Discounted childcare.
• $2,000 referral payment for referring a qualified teacher.*
• Subsidised health insurance (Eligibility Criteria Applies)
• Confidential EAP counselling and wellbeing support.
• Sick leave from your first day.
• An additional week of leave after 10 years' service.

What You'll Bring

• BEd/Dip Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary) and current NZ Teacher Certification.
• Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki and current ECE regulations.
• Understanding of child-led learning, intentional teaching, and curriculum planning.
• A genuine commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and culturally responsive practice.
• A passion for creating high-quality learning experiences.
• Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills.
• A reflective approach and commitment to ongoing professional growth.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference in the lives of tamariki while growing your own teaching journey, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now to join the team at BestStart Te Whāriki.