Full-Time
Full Pay Parity
Whangaparaoa Location

 Are you a passionate and reflective ECE teacher looking for a centre where relationships, nature, and a love of learning sit at the heart of everything?

At Small Sprouts, we are seeking a Qualified Kaiako to join our supportive, professional, and heart-led teaching team. This is an exciting opportunity for a teacher who values connection, creativity, and curiosity, and is ready to thrive in a collaborative environment that honours the unique identity and mana of every child.

About Us

• Small Sprouts is a purpose-driven early learning centre in Whangaparāoa, grounded in Te Whāriki and inspired by the Reggio Emilia and RIE/Pikler philosophies. Our learning environments embrace the natural world, with a strong focus on respectful relationships, play-based learning, and emotional wellbeing.

• We are a fully Pay Parity-aligned centre, supporting our kaiako through ongoing professional development and a genuine commitment to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and celebrating cultural diversity. The role itself is full-time and we run on roster system as we are a full-day service operating between 6:45am – 6pm.

What We Value in Our Kaiako

We are looking for a Kaiako who embodies our centre values and contributes positively to our centre culture:

• Fun: You see the joy in learning and create spaces for wonder, creativity, and playful exploration.

• Heart-led: You bring empathy, kindness, and deep care into every interaction with tamariki, whānau, and colleagues.

• Whakaute (Respect): You uphold the mana of every child and adult, valuing diverse backgrounds, voices, and perspectives.

You will also:

• Build strong relationships with tamariki, whānau, and your team

• Be engaging with setting up provactions and experiences for our Tamariki

• Be a team player who welcomes feedback, is open to growth, and contributes to a culture of learning

• Commit to providing a safe, calm, and responsive environment for children aged 0–5

What We Offer

• A supportive, collaborative teaching team

• Professional development and mentoring opportunities

• Full Pay Parity

• Thoughtfully designed, aesthetically beautiful learning spaces

• A centre culture where teachers are respected, heard, and nurtured

• Whānau-style kai and a culture of wellbeing and balance

What You Need

• A recognised NZ ECE teaching qualification (Level 7)

• Current NZ Teacher Registration (full or provisional)

• Current first aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

• A deep understanding of Te Whāriki and interest in Reggio Emilia/RIE approaches

• A genuine passion for ECE and a commitment to high-quality teaching practice