Centre Manager - Montessori

Montessori Courtyard Preschool; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Montessori preschool in Christchurch seeks a dedicated Centre Principal to lead their team and uphold high educational standards. The role requires a Montessori Diploma and significant leadership experience in Early Childhood Education. With a focus on community and child-led learning, this position offers full pay parity, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Full Pay Parity

5 weeks annual leave

50% discount on childcare fees

Relocation contribution

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in ECE, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Strong working knowledge of NZ regulatory requirements.
• Experience in budgeting and financial planning.

Responsibilities

• Lead a passionate team in a supportive environment.
• Inspire and guide teaching staff in Montessori education.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Skills

Curriculum planning

Team leadership

Conflict resolution

Communication

Education

Montessori Diploma

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education

Job description

Full time, Permanent

A unique leadership opportunity awaits an experienced and dedicated Early Childhood professional to joinCourtyard Montessori PreschoolasCentre Principal. Based in Somerfield, Christchurch, this well-established centre has been part of the local community since 1980, offering an authentic Montessori education to tamariki aged 2–6 years.

This is your chance to lead a passionate team in a supportive and collaborative environment, where relationships with staff, whānau, and the wider community are deeply valued. If you’re ready for a rewarding role that blends educational leadership with meaningful impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Courtyard Montessori is licensed for 70 children and embraces the philosophy of Maria Montessori to provide a high-quality, child-led learning experience. With a long-standing reputation in the community, the centre offers a peaceful and nurturing environment where tamariki thrive.

What you’ll bring:

We’re looking for a strong leader with a deep understanding of Montessori education and the ability to inspire and guide a dedicated teaching team. To be successful in this role, you will have:

• A Montessori Diploma and experience working in a Montessori learning environment (essential)
• A Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and current NZ teacher registration
• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in ECE, with at least 2 years in a leadership or management role
• Proven skills in curriculum planning, team leadership, and centre operations, including budgeting and financial planning
• Strong working knowledge of NZ regulatory requirements and licensing criteria
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills

What we offer:

• Full Pay Parity
• 5 weeks annual leave
• 50% discount on childcare fees
• Relocation contribution for the successful applicant if required.

How to apply

Please send your CV, and direct enquiries to:

Type: Education & Care Service
Maximum licenced places: 70

Physical address:
99 A Somerfield Street, Somerfield, Christchurch

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