Centre Manager - 12-month Maternity Cover (ECE)

Little Ferns Early Learning Centre; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Little Ferns Early Learning Centre Canterbury is seeking an organised, people-focused Centre Manager for a fixed-term maternity cover of approximately 12 months, starting 11 October 2026. You will lead the centre, work with the Business Support Manager, Team Leads and teaching team to ensure smooth operation and a nurturing learning environment.

We value strong relationships, clear communication and hands-on guidance for our tamariki and whānau, with an emphasis on collaborative leadership and

Qualifications

• Experience leading an early learning/childcare team.
• Ability to mentor Team Leads and teaching staff.
• Strong communication and relationship-building with tamariki and whānau.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership across the centre and oversee daily operations.
• Support the Business Support Manager, Team Leads and teaching team.
• Build trusting relationships and mentor staff with empathy.
• Ensure effective systems, processes and documentation are maintained.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Interpersonal skills

Relationship building

Communication

Documentation & systems

Technology literacy

Team development

Tools

Discover

Excel

Job description

Little Ferns Early Learning Centre Canterbury is seeking an organised, people-focused Centre Manager for a fixed-term maternity cover of approximately 12 months, starting 11 October 2026. You will lead the centre, work with the Business Support Manager, Team Leads and teaching team to ensure smooth operation and a nurturing learning environment.

We value strong relationships, clear communication and hands-on guidance for our tamariki and whānau, with an emphasis on collaborative leadership and