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- Tasks: Lead a passionate team in nurturing and educating infants and toddlers.
- Company: BestStart Kaiapoi, a progressive leader in early childhood education.
- Benefits: Full pay parity, discounted childcare, health insurance, and career development support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives in a supportive, community-focused environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher with strong leadership and ECE knowledge.
- Other info: Join a whānau where innovation thrives and success is celebrated.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
Nursery Head Teacher (BestStart Kaiapoi) in Canterbury employer: QJumpers
Contact Detail:
QJumpers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Head Teacher (BestStart Kaiapoi) in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early childhood education sector. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet other educators and share your passion for teaching. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Head Teacher role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get the chance for an interview, let your passion for nurturing tamariki shine through. Share stories about your experiences and how you've made a difference in children's lives. Authenticity goes a long way in making a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you would handle various scenarios in the classroom or with parents. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and ready to showcase your leadership qualities during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our BestStart whānau. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of a team that values your skills and dedication!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Head Teacher (BestStart Kaiapoi) in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for early childhood education shine through. Share specific examples of how you've fostered curiosity and growth in your previous roles – we want to see your enthusiasm for nurturing tamariki!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and requirements outlined in the job description. Highlight your understanding of Te Whāriki and ECE regulations, as well as your leadership qualities that align with our vision at BestStart.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the Head Teacher role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end!
How to prepare for a job interview at QJumpers
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in ECE regulations, Te Whāriki, and the specific curriculum at BestStart Kaiapoi. Brush up on your programme planning and pedagogy knowledge so you can confidently discuss how you’ll lead a team and foster growth in tamariki.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your passion for early childhood education shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your dedication to nurturing young minds and building strong relationships with both tamariki and their families.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Teacher, you’ll need to showcase your natural leadership qualities. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully led a team in the past, tackled challenges, and inspired others to achieve their best. This will show them you’re ready to take on this important role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the centre’s approach to education, team dynamics, and professional development opportunities. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if BestStart is the right fit for you.
