Nursery Head Teacher (BestStart Kaiapoi)
BestStart Education
Listing Description
Description
At BestStart Kaiapoi, we respect the early years – building strong foundations for the future. Our purpose-built centre is home to a warm and welcoming team with deep roots in the local community. We're proud of our long-standing, experienced staff and strong connections to nearby schools, with regular excursions that bring our local curriculum to life – even for our under-twos!
We're now looking for a passionate, qualified, and registered Teacher to step into the role of Head Teacher in our Infant and Toddler rooms (25 tamariki under two).
About the Role
Permanent, full-time (35–40 hours, Monday–Friday). Our infant and toddler spaces are filled with natural light and designed to create calm, nurturing environments where tamariki can explore and learn at their own pace. You'll lead a team of dedicated teachers who are passionate about forming strong relationships, fostering curiosity, and inspiring growth every day.
What We're Looking For
- B Ed/Dip Teaching Level 7 (ECE) and current Teacher Certification
- Strong understanding of programme planning, pedagogy and curriculum
- Sound knowledge of ECE Regulations, Te Whāriki, and compliance requirements
- Natural leadership qualities with a passion for growth and development
- Dedication to delivering high-quality care and education
Why Choose BestStart?
We're a progressive, responsive leader in the ECE sector – where teachers are valued for the positive difference they make. Our benefits include:
- Full Pay Parity
- Discounted childcare
- Subsidised health insurance and free flu vaccinations
- EAP support and counselling
- Leadership pathways and career development support
- $2000 referral bonus for qualified teachers
- Extra week of leave after 10 years of service
Joining BestStart means joining a whānau – a place where innovation thrives, relationships matter, and success is celebrated. Bring your passion, experience, and leadership to Kaiapoi and help our tamariki thrive.
Apply Now or contact Emma Poole (Talent Specialist) for a confidential chat on 027 180 01747.
Application details
Applications Close: 07/01/2026 Apply online for this role or contact BestStart Educare Limited for more information.
BestStart Education
At BestStart, we are at the forefront of early childhood education, dedicated to making a positive impact and passionate about our work. We offer exceptional early education and award-winning childcare services for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Our primary goal isto deliver high-quality education to the children in our community, and we are actively engaged in groundbreaking research focused on children's oral language development and self-regulation, known as Kia Tīmata Pai. This research initiative involves approximately 1,600 BestStart preschoolers, highlighting our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.
BestStart is committed to being a progressive and adaptable leader in the early childhood education sector. Our educators are highly valued for the transformative role they play in shaping children's lives. We are proud to announce that BestStart has implemented Full pay parity, underscoring our dedication to fairness and equity within our organisation.
At BestStart, we prioritise the support and growth of our teams through tailored professional development pathways. We believe in nurturing talent and empowering our employees to reach their full potential.
