Centre Leader

Are you a passionate leader who believes in quality early childhood education, strong relationships, and leading alongside your team? Little Waves Early Learning Centre is seeking a full-time head kaiako to join our dedicated whānau.

This is a 5-day-a-week, hands-on leadership role with a mixture of opening and closing shifts. You will work alongside tamariki and kaiako, with allocated non-contact time for leadership and administration.

Little Waves is a 50-licensed centre, including a 10-place nursery. We create a joyful, nurturing environment where every tamaiti feels safe, valued, and empowered to learn.

Guided by Te Whāriki, Te Ara Whānui, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we incorporate te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, and tikanga Māori into everyday practice. Our values guide our relationships and teaching.

About the role

Working alongside the centre manager, who oversees 2 centres, you will:

lead, mentor, and inspire kaiako

support curriculum planning, assessment, and quality teaching

build strong relationships with tamariki, whānau, and the community

support licensing compliance and continuous improvement

promote inclusive practice and positive learning outcomes.

About you:

Holds an ECE teaching qualification and current practising certificate.

Has leadership experience or be ready for the next step.

Understands Te Whāriki and value Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Incorporates te reo Māori and tikanga Māori into practice.

Is approachable, organised, reflective, and passionate about supporting others.

What we offer:

Full pay parity.

Paid professional development.

Leadership support and non-contact time.

A collaborative team and opportunities to grow.

The chance to make a genuine difference.

Following our recent ERO journey, we are committed to continuous improvement and achieving the best outcomes for tamariki.

Lead with heart and grow with our team! Apply now with your CV and cover letter. We look forward to welcoming you into our Little Waves whānau.