Head Teacher (Beststart Abacus)

Qjumpers; Waikato; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full Pay Parity

Discounted childcare

Health insurance

Flu vaccinations

EAP counselling

Leadership programmes

Career development

Referral bonus

Extra leave

Job summary

BestStart Abacus Taupo in the Waikato region is seeking an experienced Head Teacher to lead and inspire a dedicated teaching team, while modelling high-quality practice and a child-led, play-based approach to learning.

You will oversee programme planning, assessment and curriculum development, ensure compliance with ECE regulations, and foster strong relationships with tamariki and whānau in a warm, nurturing environment.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership of a teaching team.
• Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki and ECE regulations.
• Experience in programme planning and assessment.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and inspire a teaching team.
• Role model high-quality practice and child-led, play-based learning.
• Oversee curriculum development and assessment.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Curriculum development

Te Whāriki knowledge

Compliance knowledge

Communication

Education

BEd/Dip Teaching Level 7 (ECE)

Job description

Our experienced team of teachers are dedicated to creating a warm, friendly and fun environment. Children are encouraged and supported to learn through their play experiences, and we set our environment based on these as we feel this will create genuine moments for curiosity and exploration. We encourage children to work together, learn alongside and from their peers and most importantly to enjoy being a child and have fun!

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and passionate Head Teacher to join our team. As Head Teacher, you’ll lead, mentor and inspire a dedicated teaching team, while role modelling high-quality practice and supporting a child-led, play-based approach to learning. You’ll bring confidence and knowledge to the role, ensuring strong programme planning, assessment and curriculum development, while maintaining high standards of compliance and care.

This is a permanent, full-time position working 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a confident and collaborative leader who is passionate about infants and committed to creating a warm, nurturing and stimulating learning environment.

You’ll bring:

• A BEd/Dip Teaching Level 7 (ECE) qualification and Full Teacher Registration
• Strong knowledge of Te Whāriki, ECE regulations and compliance requirements
• A genuine passion for providing responsive, nurturing care for infants
• Strong understanding of programme planning, assessment and curriculum development
• A growth mindset and commitment to creating high-quality learning experiences
• Proven ability to lead, mentor and support a collaborative teaching team
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with tamariki, whānau and colleagues

Why Choose BestStart?

At BestStart, we value our teachers and leaders and are committed to supporting you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of tamariki. You’ll have access to:

• Full Pay Parity
• Discounted childcare
• Subsidised health insurance (eligibility criteria apply)
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• Confidential EAP counselling
• Leadership programmes for current and aspiring leaders
• Multiple career pathways and ongoing professional development
• $2,000 referral bonus for referring a qualified teacher*
• One additional week of leave after 10 years of service

Ready to Make a Difference?

Head Teacher (BestStart Abacus) Taupo - Waikato