Head teacher/curriculum leader

Peel Forest Preschool; Canterbury; On-site; NZD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-based early childhood center in Peel Forest, New Zealand, is seeking a passionate head teacher for a fixed term position. The ideal candidate will have a strong leadership background, a commitment to high-quality education, and a deep understanding of early childhood principles. They will support an environment rich in nature, mentor staff, and foster relationships with families. This role includes excellent remuneration based on experience and a focus on work-life balance.

Benefits

Low child-teacher ratios

High-quality curriculum

Natural environment for outdoor adventures

Professional development opportunities

Full Pay Parity

School-term structure

Attractive operating hours

Qualifications

• Must be genuinely passionate about early childhood education.
• Proven leadership experience or readiness for a leadership role.
• Able to build strong relationships with tamariki and whānau.
• Collaborative, flexible, proactive approach required.
• Solid understanding of Te Whāriki is necessary.
• Ability to lead Curriculum Planning and Assessment.

Responsibilities

• Support nurturing and educational environment for 20 tamariki.
• Lead curriculum planning and internal evaluation.
• Mentor and coach fellow educators.

Skills

Passion for early childhood education

Leadership experience

Strong relationship building

Collaborative and proactive approach

Understanding of Te Whāriki

Curriculum Planning and Assessment

Coaching and mentoring skills

First aid certificate

Education

ECE or primary teaching qualification

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