Early Learning Centre Manager - Oamaru

Lead with Heart and Integrity: Become the Centre Manager at Barnardos Oamaru

At Barnardos Oamaru ELC, we are dedicated to keeping tamariki and whānau at the heart of everything we do, guided by our philosophy of creating strong foundations for the future. 

We honour the uniqueness of every child (Whakapapa), strengthen connections with whānau and the wider community (Whakawhanaungatanga), and value Te Tiriti o Waitangi as the bicultural foundation of Aotearoa (Kotahitanga). 
With a deep respect for the environment (Kaitiakitanga) and a commitment to collaborative learning (Ako), we seek a passionate Centre Manager to join our team and help every child shine. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Achieve financial and occupancy targets while upholding our core principles and commitments to tamariki and whānau.
• Oversee daily operations with precision, fostering a supportive and enriching environment that enhances tamariki wellbeing and development.
• Mentor and guide a dedicated team of educators and teachers, reflecting the principles of partnership inherent in Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the unique place of Māori as tangata whenua.
• Balance management duties with hands-on teaching, leading by example to maintain an excellent early learning environment.

Qualifications and Skills: 

• ECE qualification (Bachelor or Diploma) with full certification.
• Proven experience in early childhood education and previous managerial and leadership roles.
• Exceptional ability to foster meaningful connections and high trust relationships.
• Inspirational leadership with the ability to advocate for tamariki and whānau.
• Familiarity with Te Whāriki and a dedication to high-quality practices.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

Embody our values

• Kotahitanga (unity): Cultivate a sense of belonging through meaningful relationships with tamariki, rangatahi, colleagues, and the wider community
• Mahi tōtika (excellence): Demonstrate unwavering integrity and purpose in all aspects of your work, striving for the highest standards of care
• Kaikōkiritanga (innovation): Drive positive change with creativity, constantly seeking new and effective ways to support tamariki and rangatahi
• Āta whakarongo (active listening): Let tamariki and rangatahi voices shape your approach, ensuring their perspectives are central to decision-making
• Māiatanga (empowerment): Nurture growth and unlock potential in tamariki, rangatahi, and colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development

Why choose Barnardos

• Personalised Mentoring for Enhanced Leadership: Benefit from tailored mentoring that refines your leadership skills and supports your professional aspirations.
• Ongoing Professional Development: Access continuous professional development opportunities that keep you at the cutting edge of early childhood education.
• Discounted Childcare Services: Enjoy reduced childcare costs for your own children, ensuring they receive the same exceptional care and education you provide.
• Financial support to retain Teacher registration
• Work within a collaborative network of Centre Managers throughout Te Waipounamu

About Barnardos: 
Barnardos Aotearoa is a children’s charity working with tamariki and whānau to ensure every child in Aotearoa has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances. Our unique combination of social services, early learning, care services and counselling helpline provides the broadest range of child and whānau-centred services in Aotearoa. 

Each year, we work with more than 30,000 tamariki, rangatahi and whānau across the country.   

If you would like a copy of the position description please email [email protected]