Rotokauri Early Education Centre - Assistant Manager/Lead Teacher


  • Join an amazing Centre within a reputable organisation
  • Competitive salary (+$100,000 per annum)
  • Excellent support, mentoring and professional development
  • Work alongside an experienced, collaborative team

About Us

At Early Education Waikato, we are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives  of tamariki and their whānau. We believe quality education helps shapes a child’s lifelong learning journey and we are dedicated to providing nurturing environments where children can thrive.

With an excellent reputation across the Waikato region, Early Education Waikato offers high-quality services with purposefully designed learning spaces to meet the development needs of tamariki at every stage.

About the Role

Conveniently located near The Base, Rotokauri Early Education Centre is a modern, purpose-built centre committed to providing inspiring learning environments for tamariki. Due to internal movement, we are seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Assistant Manager/ Lead Teacher to join our team at Rotokauri Early Education Centre.

As a Lead Teacher, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the kindergarten room (ages 4 to 5), leading and supporting your team to provide high-quality education and care. You will help create a positive, engaging learning environment where tamariki feel valued, supported and encouraged to reach their potential.

In the Assistant Manager role, you will assist the Centre Manager in maintaining high standards across the Centre, providing operational and leadership support to ensure the centre operates effectively. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is ready to grow their leadership capability while remaining connected to teaching and learning.

To support you in this dual role, you will receive dedicated release time, mentoring coaching and professional development.

This is a Monday to Friday, 8 hours per day position, with shifts rostered between  7:30am and 5:30pm.

What We’re Looking for

We are looking for someone who is passionate about children and quality early childhood education, and who brings:

  • Leadership & Teaching Expertise - A growth mindset and a genuine commitment to strengthening leadership capability and teaching practice, with the ability to work positively with a diverse range of personalities.
  • Resilience and Tenacity - The ability to remain positive, adaptable and effective in a dynamic environment, including when challenges arise.
  • Relationship Building – A genuine passion for developing strong, respectful and professional relationships with tamariki, whānau and colleagues.
  • Interpersonal Skills - Excellent communication skills, a collaborative approach, emotional awareness and a good sense of humour.
  • Willing to learn – A proactive approach to learning, embracing feedback and continuing to develop your leadership, teaching and professional skills.

What We Offer

  • Supportive coaching and mentoring to help you thrive in the role
  • Long service leave to recognise and reward commitment
  • Excellent ratios with an experienced team
  • Professional development opportunities for ongoing growth
  • A positive, inclusive and collaborative work environment

Join Us

If you are passionate about early childhood education, enjoy supporting and developing others and  are ready to take the next step in your leadership journey, we’d love to hear from you.

 

Apply now

Permanent Full Time

Job no: IQAL60449

Location: Rotokauri Early Education Centre

Closing Date: Monday, 5 October 2026