Head Teacher – Tōtara (2.5-5 years)

At Tūī, one question guides everything we do: “What is in the best interest of the child?”

With our much-loved head teacher, Gaye, retiring in December, we’re looking for a warm, experienced leader to guide our Tōtara team at Lytton Street, Feilding.

Tōtara is home to our older tamariki, with welcoming spaces and a wonderfully expansive outdoor environment for exploration, discovery and play. We value unhurried relationships, children’s curiosity and the learning woven through everyday moments.

Family-owned since 1992, Tūī has a strong sense of belonging and many longstanding teachers and leaders. Our practice is grounded in Te Whāriki, enriched by the Curiosity Approach, and shaped by respect for each child’s identity, interests and capabilities.

We’re seeking a fully qualified ECE teacher with full certification, a current practising certificate and proven experience leading and mentoring kaiako.

You will bring:

• A warm, approachable leadership style and the confidence to have honest, constructive conversations.
• Strong curriculum knowledge and the ability to guide planning, assessment and internal evaluation.
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and culturally responsive, inclusive practice.
• Thoughtful support for children’s social and emotional learning.
• Excellent communication, sound organisation and strong partnerships with whānau.

You’ll lead alongside your team, modelling thoughtful teaching and leading and helping others grow. In return, you’ll have the support of our general manager, education leader, operations manager and early intervention leader, alongside connections with head teachers across Tūī.

If you love teaching and know how to bring out the best in a team, we’d love to meet you.