Centre Manager

Peel Forest Preschool is a rural, community-based, not-for-profit Early Childhood Education centre in the heart of Peel Forest Village. We are licensed for 20 tamariki, with a mixed licence for both under-2s and over-2s, and we operate with 100% qualified teachers. 

We're looking for an experienced, people-focused centre manager to lead our centre into its next chapter. You'll work alongside our head teacher, a capable and caring teaching team, and a supportive volunteer management committee.

This is a leadership role. Your focus will be on:

• leading, supporting and developing our teaching team

• keeping the centre compliant with ECE licensing criteria and regulations

• working alongside our head teacher to deliver a rich, nature-based curriculum and a great environment for our tamariki

• building strong relationships with whānau, our community and outside agencies

• managing centre operations

• reporting to the management committee and helping shape our strategic and annual plans

• spotting opportunities to grow and strengthen the centre.

Why join us

• A close-knit, collaborative team and low child–teacher ratios.

• A high-quality curriculum shaped by nature and child-led learning.

• An expansive natural environment with endless opportunities for adventure.

• A supportive volunteer committee.

• Remuneration based on experience and qualifications.

• School-term structure – closed for school holidays and three weeks over Christmas.

• A workplace that genuinely values wellbeing and a sustainable work–life balance.

What we're looking for

• Leadership or management experience in ECE.

• A recognised ECE qualification and current practising certificate.

• Sound working knowledge of the ECE licensing criteria, regulations and Te Whāriki.

• Strong people skills – you coach, support and lead a team well.

• Well organised and confident with systems (Infocare, Xero, Storypark etc).

• Clear, warm communication with whānau, the committee and outside agencies.

• Alignment with our philosophy of child-led, nature-focused learning.

• A current first aid certificate, or willingness to obtain one.