Centre Manager (BestStart St Albans)

BestStart St Albans is seeking a passionate and dedicated Centre Manager to lead our experienced, long-standing, and close-knit team. This is an exciting opportunity for an established leader to make a meaningful impact on children, families, and teachers alike.

Located in a beautiful converted villa near the Avon-Ōtākaro River, our centre offers a warm, home-like environment with two learning spaces: an under 2s room and a mixed-age over 2s room. We pride ourselves on creating a culture where tamariki feel safe, valued, and empowered to be themselves.

At BestStart St Albans, we believe in supporting children to take managed risks, build resilience, and develop confidence through rich learning experiences. Supported by BestStart's wider network of educational leaders and support services, you'll work alongside your team to ensure every child receives the care, guidance, and opportunities they need to flourish.

Why Choose Us?

Here at BestStart, we are committed to being a progressive and adaptable leader in the ECE sector, where our teachers and leaders are recognised for the positive difference they make in children's lives. We are proud to offer Full Pay Parity.

Other benefits include:

• Learning through Whare Ako, our online learning platform
• Supportive coaching and mentoring
• Ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities
• Leadership programmes for current and aspiring leaders
• Discounted childcare

Prove yourself in the Centre Manager role and you may have the opportunity to join our Independent Centre Manager Programme, giving you greater autonomy to lead your centre while being recognised for delivering exceptional outcomes.

Your Health and Wellbeing Matter

• Subsidised health insurance (eligibility criteria apply)
• Free annual flu vaccinations
• Confidential counselling through EAP
• Wellbeing programme
• Sick leave from your first day
• One week's additional leave after 10 years' service

About the Role

Reporting to an Area Manager, you will lead the day-to-day operations of the centre, inspire and grow your teaching team, and build strong relationships with children, families, and the community. You'll be a confident communicator, a collaborative leader, and someone committed to achieving positive outcomes for all learners.

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

Role Requirements

We are looking for someone who has:

• BEd/Dip Teaching Level 7 (ECE) and current Teacher Certification
• Strong understanding of child-led curriculum and pedagogy
• Sound knowledge of ECE Regulations and Te Whāriki
• A commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice
• Proven ability to coach and develop others
• A collaborative, innovative, and solutions-focused approach
• A minimum of 2 years management experience in education

How to Apply: Click Apply Now or contact your local Talent Specialist Emma Poole on [027 1800 1747](tel:027 1800 1747) for a confidential chat.

Join BestStart St Albans and become part of a supportive team dedicated to helping every child thrive.

For a copy of the Job Description visit position-description---centre-manager-new.pdf