Head Teacher (BestStart Taita)
Lead with heart. Nurture with intention. Inspire through care.
Are you ready to step into a role where you can shape a calm, connected, and curiosity-driven learning environment? We are seeking a Head Teacher for our Infants Room — someone who can lead a strong, heart-led team and give our youngest tamariki the best possible start to their learning journey.
Why Join Us?
Our centre’s philosophy is rooted in Te Whāriki, inspired by the Curiosity Approach, and guided by the values of inclusive practice, trust, and authentic relationships. We believe infants deserve the same respect, attention, and rich experiences as all learners — nurtured through love, responsiveness, and peaceful caregiving. You’ll be leading a space where care is the curriculum, relationships are central, and curiosity shapes each day.
What Makes Our Centre Special?
- A respectful and inclusive culture that honours every tamaiti and every kaiako
- A calm, wonder-filled space where tamariki learn through connection, movement, and sensory exploration
- A team-first environment, where collaboration, support, and shared leadership are highly valued
- A philosophy-rich setting where your ideas, voice, and leadership are truly appreciated
Your Role as Head Teacher – Infants Room
As the lead kaiako for our infants, you will:
- Create and lead a responsive, respectful, and loving environment for pēpi
- Model intentional, attachment-based caregiving, ensuring each child feels safe, seen, and cherished
- Inspire and support your team to uphold values of calm, rhythm, and attuned care
- Partner closely with whānau, respecting and incorporating home cultures and routines
- Lead curriculum planning, documentation, and assessment that reflects holistic, strengths-based infant learning
- Ensure excellence in compliance with licensing, regulations, and health and safety standards
- Foster reflective practice and continuous growth within your teaching team
What We’re Looking For:
- A Level 7 ECE qualification and current teacher certification
- Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki, curriculum, and ECE regulations
- Expertise in infant development, primary caregiving, and attachment theory
- Proven leadership grounded in empathy, clarity, and integrity
- Commitment to high-quality education, inclusive practice, and respectful care
- Confident in planning, documentation, and compliance
- A collaborative, heart-led kaiako who uplifts others and leads with purpose
Why You’ll Love Leading With Us:
- A values-led environment where leadership is shared, supported, and genuinely celebrated
- Opportunities for ongoing professional development and leadership coaching
- A dedicated, passionate team eager to be led, inspired, and supported by you
- A chance to help shape the culture, rhythm, and magic of our infants space
- A centre that sees teaching as heartwork — where your contribution creates lasting impact
Ready to Lead With Love? If you're ready to take your next step in leadership and help create a peaceful, inspiring home-away-from-home for our infants, we would love to meet you.
