Kaiako matua / Head teacher

Mayfair Kindergarten; George Town; On-site; MYR 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused kindergarten in Malaysia is seeking an inspiring leader to guide their team. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to ECE excellence and leadership experience. You will be responsible for creating high-quality learning experiences and fostering authentic relationships with families and the community. This role offers ongoing professional development, a supportive team culture, and generous leave benefits.

Benefits

Six weeks' annual leave

Free health insurance

Sick leave available from day one

Ongoing leadership development

Qualifications

• Experience or readiness to step into a head teacher role
• Ability to work with diverse learners aged 2-6
• Knowledge of ECE compliance and health and safety

Responsibilities

• Guide a committed team in high-quality teaching practices
• Create meaningful learning opportunities
• Foster relationships with whānau and the community

Skills

Leadership experience

Strong commitment to ECE teaching

Excellent relational and communication skills

Effective time-management and organizational capability

Education

Recognised ECE teaching qualification

Full NZ teacher registration

Job description

'He taonga te mokopuna – every child a treasure'.

Join our warm, community-focused kindergarten where tamariki are supported through calm, nurturing, play-based learning experiences that honour their mana and individuality.

We’re seeking an inspiring leader and experienced kaiako to guide Mayfair Kindergarten forward. This is an excellent opportunity to lead a committed team who value whakawhanaungatanga, inclusive practice, and the creation of meaningful learning opportunities anchored in strong relationships. The role commences January 2026.

About you

You’re an authentic, confident leader who values collaboration, transparent communication, and shared leadership. You enjoy supporting kaiako to grow through a strengths-based approach and fostering a culture of collective responsibility. With sound pedagogical knowledge, you’ll champion high-quality teaching practices, guide professional growth, and create an environment where tamariki and kaiako truly thrive.

What you will bring

• Leadership experience or readiness to step confidently into a kaiako matua (head teacher) role
• Strong commitment to Te Whāriki and high-quality teaching and learning
• A deep appreciation for the diversity of 2-6 year-olds and diverse learners, valuing their unique energy and perspectives
• Excellent relational and communication skills
• Ability to build authentic partnerships with whānau and the community
• Strong knowledge of ECE compliance, health and safety, and administration
• Empathy, humour, resilience, and reflective practice in everyday leadership
• Effective time-management and organisational capability.

What you will need

• A recognised ECE teaching qualification
• Full NZ teacher registrationl
• Legal right to work in New Zealand.

What We Offer

• A supportive, caring team culture
• Six weeks’ annual leave
• Free health insurance
• Sick leave available from day one
• Ongoing leadership and professional development.

If you’re a relationship-driven, values-led leader who is ready to continue Mayfair Kindergarten’s strong foundations and commitment to excellence, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Kirsty Overend by phone.

Vacancy link:
www.heretaungakindergartens.co.nz/jobs

Vacancy reference #:1HAqrH

Physical address:
1210 Cunningham Crescent, Mayfair, Hastings