Head teacher/curriculum leader

Peel Forest Preschool; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-based ECE centre is looking for a passionate head teacher to join their team during maternity leave. The ideal candidate should be ECE or primary qualified, with strong leadership, relationship-building skills, and a commitment to child-led, nature-focused learning. This full-time, fixed term position offers competitive remuneration and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Low child-teacher ratios

Commitment to a high-quality curriculum

Mentoring & professional development opportunities

Full Pay Parity

Attractive Operating Hours

Qualifications

• Genuine passion for early childhood education.
• Proven leadership experience.
• Strong relationships with tamariki and whānau.

Responsibilities

• Lead Curriculum Planning and Assessment.
• Support Internal Evaluation.
• Foster a child-led, nature-focused learning philosophy.

Skills

Leadership experience or readiness

Strong relationship building

Collaborative and proactive approach

Strong coaching and communication

Education

ECE or primary teaching qualification

First aid certificate

Job description

Full time, Fixed term, Start Date: 12/01/2026, End Date: 18/12/2026 (Maternity leave)

Peel Forest Preschool is a community-based, not-for-profit ECE centre in the heart of Peel Forest Village. Licensed for 20 tamariki, we are on the lookout for a passionate head teacher to join our close-knit team due to our current kaiako going on maternity leave.

This is a 12-month, fixed term position and we are open to tailoring a role that suits your lifestyle. Staff wellbeing is a top priority – we understand the importance of a sustainable work/life balance. Peel Forest Preschool is a dream environment for teachers where we are proud to offer:

• Low child-teacher ratios in a nurturing, community-driven setting
• Commitment to a high-quality curriculum shaped by nature – embrace the beauty of our rural environment
• Expansive natural environment – endless opportunities for adventure
• Pathway to School and Music & Movement programmes
• Mentoring & professional development opportunities
• Full Pay Parity – remuneration based on experience and qualifications
• School-term structure – closed for school holidays and for three weeks over Christmas
• Attractive Operating Hours

What we’re looking for:

We’re seeking an ECE or primary qualified and registered teacher who:

• Is genuinely passionate about early childhood education and making a difference
• Has proven leadership experience or readiness to step into a leadership role
• Values strong relationships with tamariki, whānau, and the teaching team
• Is collaborative, flexible, and proactive in their approach
• Has a solid understanding of Te Whāriki
• Has the ability to lead Curriculum Planning and Assessment and support Internal Evaluation
• Demonstrates strong coaching, mentoring, and communication skills
• Holds (or is willing to obtain) a first aid certificate
• Aligns with our philosophy and vision for child-led, nature-focused learning

Interested? Let’s chat!

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please get in touch.

Applicants must be NZ residents or hold a current NZ work visa – we are not an accredited employer.

How to apply

Please send your CV, and direct enquiries to:

Type: Education & Care Service
Maximum licenced places: 20

Physical address:
1138 Peel Forest 22 RD, Geraldine

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