Head Teacher (BestStart Petone)

Best Start; Upper Hutt; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full Pay Parity

Discounted childcare

Health insurance

Free annual flu vaccinations

Confidential counselling via EAP

Leadership development programmes

Multiple career pathways

Job summary

BestStart Petone is seeking a passionate and dedicated Head Teacher in our Te Moana Preschool Room to lead a team of teachers, deliver high-quality early childhood education, mentor staff, and build strong relationships with families and the wider whānau.

This permanent, full-time role (40 hours per week, Monday to Friday) offers opportunities to champion collaboration, ensure licensing compliance, and reflect best practice in Te Whāriki to support tamariki development and lifelong learning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Education or Diploma in Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary).
• Current New Zealand Teacher Certification is required.
• Strong knowledge of programme planning, assessment, pedagogy and curriculum.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of teachers to deliver high-quality ECE and care.
• Mentor and inspire teachers in best practice.
• Build authentic relationships with families and whānau; ensure curriculum reflects quality practice.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Collaboration

Curriculum knowledge

Education

Bachelor of Education / Diploma in Teaching

NZ Teacher Certification

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

BestStart Petone is seeking a passionate and dedicated Qualified and Registered Teacher to join our energetic and close-knit team as our new Head Teacher in our Te Moana Preschool Room.

At BestStart Petone, our philosophy is centred on creating a strong sense of belonging, wellbeing, and connection for every child and whānau. We believe children are capable, confident learners and provide rich, meaningful experiences inspired by the unique history, culture, and natural environment of Petone.

Our curriculum reflects our commitment to sustainability, localised learning, and fostering children's curiosity through engaging, play-based experiences. We are fortunate to have a stable, experienced, and passionate team of teachers who work collaboratively to build strong relationships with children and families. Through strong community connections with local schools, businesses, and surrounding environments, we support children's learning journeys and successful transitions to school.

Conveniently located in the heart of Petone, our centre is easily accessible for local families and commuters alike. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming environment where children, whānau, and teachers feel valued, supported, and inspired every day.

Why work for BestStart?

At BestStart, we're committed to being a progressive and responsive leader in the ECE sector, where teachers are recognised for the positive difference they make in children's lives. We offer a range of fantastic benefits including:

• FULL Pay Parity
• Discounted childcare and access to discounted after-school care at selected locations
• Subsidised health insurance
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• Confidential counselling through EAP
• Leadership development programmes for current and aspiring leaders
• Multiple career pathways with wrap-around support to help you grow your career, your way
• Refer a Qualified Teacher and receive $2,000*
• One week of additional leave after 10 years of service

About the Role

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

As the Head Teacher of our Te Moana Preschool Room, you will lead a team of teachers to deliver high-quality early childhood education and care. You'll play a key role in supporting children's learning and development, mentoring and inspiring teachers, building authentic relationships with families, and ensuring our curriculum reflects best practice.

You will champion a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and excellence while supporting compliance with licensing requirements and organisational expectations.

About Te Moana Preschool

At BestStart Petone, our preschool programme is about more than preparing children for school, we're helping prepare them for life. We focus on strengthening key learning dispositions such as curiosity, creativity, resilience, independence, and a love of learning. These foundations empower children to thrive both at school and beyond.

Role Requirements

We're looking for an inspiring leader who shares our values and vision and has a strong understanding of programme planning, assessment, and teaching practice. You'll bring enthusiasm, initiative, and a genuine passion for supporting both children and colleagues to grow and succeed. You will also have:

• Bachelor of Education/Diploma in Teaching Level 7 (ECE or Primary)
• Current New Zealand Teacher Certification
• Strong knowledge of programme planning, assessment, pedagogy, and curriculum
• Sound understanding of ECE Regulations and Te Whāriki
• A commitment to maintaining high standards of compliance and quality practice
• Passion for teaching and learning and delivering exceptional outcomes for tamariki

Join the BestStart Whānau

Joining BestStart means becoming part of a supportive whānau where innovation thrives, achievements are celebrated, and everyone's unique strengths are valued. If you're passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and want to be part of a team that genuinely cares, we'd love to hear from you.