Head Kaiako

Marlborough Kindergarten; Auckland; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A vibrant early childhood education center in Auckland seeks a Head Teacher to provide pedagogical leadership and mentor staff. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience and a commitment to sustainability and inclusive practices. Join a supportive culture dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of tamariki and their families.

Benefits

Supportive culture

Professional growth opportunities

Generous non-contact time

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in early childhood education.
• Proven leadership abilities and strengths in mentoring.
• Experience in inclusive practices and internal evaluations.

Responsibilities

• Provide pedagogical leadership to the teaching team.
• Champion sustainability initiatives within the kindergarten.
• Build strong partnerships with whānau and the community.

Skills

Leadership skills

Mentoring

Bicultural teaching

Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Education

Full registration and certification in ECE

Job description

Early learning / kōhanga reo, Head teacher

English, Health and physical education, Learning languages, Mathematics and statistics, Science, Social sciences, Technology, Te reo Māori, The arts, Belonging / Mana Whenua, Contribution / Mana Tangata, Communication / Mana Reo, Exploration / Mana Aotūroa, Well-being / Mana Atua

Permanent, full-time leadership role | Starting term 1, January 2026

Lead with purpose. Inspire through sustainability. Shape the future of tamariki.

Ko te ahurei o te tamaiti aroha o tātou mahi Let the uniqueness of the child guide our work

About us

Ngā Tamariki Pūāwai o Tāmaki | Auckland Kindergarten Association (AKA) has been a trusted leader in Early Childhood Education since 1908. With 112 kindergartens and KiNZ centres across Tāmaki Makaurau, we are committed to providing high-quality, inclusive education that empowers tamariki and supports whānau.

At Marlborough Kindergarten

Marlborough Kindergarten is a welcoming, vibrant place where tamariki and whānau feel a true sense of belonging. We celebrate our multicultural community through cultural events and shared learning, while also honouring whānau aspirations for their tamariki.

Set beside a reserve, our kindergarten provides rich opportunities for exploration and connection with Papatūānuku. As an Enviroschool working towards Green/Gold status, sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Tamariki are empowered as kaitiaki through gardening, composting, and environmental initiatives.

Māori perspectives are woven into our daily practice. Tamariki learn and play in our carved wharenui, engaging with tikanga, te reo, waiata, and pūrākau. Our play-based philosophy fosters curiosity, resilience, creativity, literacy, and numeracy, with strong pathways supporting transition to school.

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic head kaiako to provide pedagogical leadership, mentor kaiako, champion sustainability, and build strong partnerships with whānau and community.

What we’re looking for

You’ll be a fully registered and certificated ECE kaiako with at least 5 years’ experience, proven leadership skills, and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Strengths in mentoring, internal evaluation, inclusive practice, and bicultural teaching are essential.

At AKA, you’ll enjoy a supportive culture, professional growth, generous non-contact time, and the chance to make a lasting difference.

How to apply

Please apply directly through the listed vacancy link:

• Type: Free Kindergarten
• Maximum licenced places: 40

Physical address: 7 A Agincourt Street, Glenfield, Auckland

Postal Address: Wellesley Street, Auckland 1141