Teacher-in-Training (BestStart Whangamata)
BestStart Education
Listing Description
Description
BestStart Whangamata is seeking a passionate and dedicated Teacher in Training to join our energetic, tight‑knit team. Our centre sits close to the beach, with strong community connections and a well‑established, experienced teaching team who are committed to providing high‑quality education for our tamariki.
About the Role
If you have a passion for teaching young children and are currently enrolled in a Level 7 ECE programme (ECE Bachelor or Graduate Diploma), we would love to hear from you.
This is a fixed‑term position to cover parental leave from July 2026 to January 2027.
- Hours: Monday–Friday
- Time: 8.30am–3.30pm
- Weekly hours: 32.5
- Permanent contract during the fixed‑term period
You will be working closely with our under‑2 tamariki in the Fantail Room.
Working in the Fantail Room
The Fantail Room is a calm, nurturing, home‑like space designed to support our youngest learners. It functions like a home, allowing tamariki to explore at their own pace in a quiet, inviting environment. Play‑based provocations are thoughtfully set up to reflect each child's interests and developmental needs.
Our teachers maintain strong, trusting relationships with whānau. Daily routines are communicated through an individual notebook that goes home each day. This includes meal times, sleep times, nappy changes, and personalised notes about the child's day. Teachers often add special messages and stickers to create a record that families can enjoy and cherish.
This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about infant and toddler pedagogy and who values responsive, relationship‑based practice.
Why Choose BestStart
BestStart is committed to being a progressive and adaptable leader in the ECE sector. Our teachers are recognised for the positive difference they make in children's lives.
You will also benefit from:
- Whare Ako online learning and tailored PLD opportunities
- Support to grow your career your way, with multiple pathways and wrap‑around guidance
- Mentorship from experienced Kaiako
- Wellbeing support, including EAP counselling
- A collaborative, caring team culture
What We're Looking For
We are seeking someone who is committed to excellence and passionate about delivering quality learning experiences.
You will bring:
- Enrolment in a Level 7 ECE Bachelor or Graduate Diploma
- Understanding of child‑led curriculum and extending children's learning
- Knowledge of ECE Regulations, Te Whāriki, and a strong commitment to compliance
- Dedication to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through everyday pedagogical practice
- Passion, curiosity, and a commitment to high‑quality teaching and learning
How to Apply: Click Apply Now to join a team that values growth, collaboration, and the joy of teaching. We look forward to welcoming you to BestStart Whangamata.
Application details
Applications Close: 11/06/2026 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.
