At a Glance
- Tasks: Guide playful learning sessions and support tamariki in their exploration and growth.
- Company: Join Playcentre Aotearoa, a trusted early childhood education provider since 1941.
- Benefits: Permanent role during school terms with flexible hours and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while fostering inclusive learning environments.
- Qualifications: Must have Level 4+ Early Childhood qualification and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Engage with diverse cultures and empower whānau in a vibrant educational setting.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
About us: Formed in 1941, Te Whānau Tupu Ngātahi o Aotearoa – Playcentre Aotearoa is a licenced early childhood education provider and charitable trust. With a philosophy of empowering ‘parents as first educators’, Playcentre seeks to empower whānau and tamariki to work, play, learn and grow together, and today has over 400 centres nationwide.
About the role: The Session Facilitator works alongside our members and tamariki to guide session activities, facilitate learning using child-led play and positive guidance, support planning and assessment for learning and positively support the Playcentre education programme. Engage children in playful, stimulating, and imaginative experiences that encourage exploration, problem-solving, and independence. Foster strong, responsive relationships with tamariki, recognizing their individual strengths, interests, and cultural diversity. Promote inclusive learning by encouraging communication, expression, and the development of positive learning dispositions.
Position details: Commencing 27 January 2026 Tuesday 9:30 - 2:30pm and Thursday 9:30 to 2:00pm includes 30min unpaid break for both days, 8.5 hours per week. This is a permanent position during school term-time only.
About you: The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills with both tamariki and adults, and demonstrate:
- Playcentre Course 3 or higher, or a Level 4+ Early Childhood qualification
- Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki, ECE regulations, and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
- Passion for Playcentre philosophy and empowering whānau to feel included and engaged
- Confidence using technology to support learning and administration
- NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa
How to apply: We encourage interested applicants to apply via the form below as we will be reviewing applications as we receive them. This ad will close 12 January 2026. If you have any questions or would like more information about the role, please contact us at vacancies@playcentre.org.nz, using “USI SF Leeston” in the subject line.
Session Facilitator – Leeston Playcentre in Canterbury employer: NZ Playcentre Federation
Contact Detail:
NZ Playcentre Federation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Session Facilitator – Leeston Playcentre in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Playcentre philosophy inside out! When you understand their values and approach, you can tailor your conversations to show how you embody those principles. This will help you connect with the team and demonstrate that you're a perfect fit.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves working closely with tamariki and whānau, being able to express yourself clearly and warmly is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for child-led play during interviews! Share specific examples of how you've facilitated learning experiences in the past. This will highlight your commitment to empowering tamariki and engaging them in imaginative activities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and genuinely interested in joining the Playcentre community.
We think you need these skills to ace Session Facilitator – Leeston Playcentre in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for the Playcentre philosophy shine through in your application. We want to see how you connect with our values and how you plan to empower whānau and tamariki.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and qualifications, especially your knowledge of Te Whāriki and ECE regulations. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we do!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your cover letter, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure to express your ideas without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply via our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at NZ Playcentre Federation
✨Know Your Playcentre Philosophy
Make sure you understand the Playcentre philosophy and how it empowers parents as educators. Be ready to discuss how you can apply this in your role as a Session Facilitator, especially in fostering strong relationships with tamariki.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Te Whāriki
Brush up on your knowledge of Te Whāriki and ECE regulations. Prepare examples of how you've used these frameworks in past experiences to support child-led play and learning.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
Since excellent communication is key, think of specific instances where you've successfully engaged with both children and adults. Highlight your ability to promote inclusive learning and encourage expression among tamariki.
✨Be Tech-Savvy
As technology plays a role in supporting learning and administration, be prepared to discuss your experience with relevant tools. Share how you've used technology to enhance learning experiences or streamline processes in previous roles.