Kaiako - Teacher

Job Description:

• Have you got a current First Aid certificate and good basic computing skills?
• Are you currently studying towards an Early Childhood qualification or planning to enrol?
• Can you provide a safe and inclusive environment where all children feel valued and supported?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting a Kaiako - Teacher to join Early Childhood Education, University Kids team on a permanent full-time basis.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a high-quality early childhood environment while working towards gaining an approved Early Childhood Education qualification. You will support the delivery of education and care, build meaningful relationships with children and families, and contribute to a collaborative and supportive teaching team.

University Kids supports a diverse community, including many international families who are new to New Zealand. This role is well suited to someone who brings warmth, cultural awareness, and a genuine passion for supporting children and families from a range of backgrounds.

This role is particularly suited to individuals who:

• Are currently studying towards an Early Childhood qualification or planning to enrol.
• Hold overseas qualifications and are working toward New Zealand recognition.
• Bring strong cultural awareness and experience working with diverse or international communities.
• Are motivated, caring, and eager to grow within the early childhood profession.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where all children feel valued and supported.
• Build responsive, respectful relationships and recognise each child’s individual strengths, culture, and learning style.
• Support children’s learning through play, guidance, and meaningful everyday interactions.
• Develop warm, welcoming relationships with families and whānau from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Support children and families during transitions into the centre, particularly those new to New Zealand.
• Communicate regularly with families about their child’s learning, wellbeing, and experiences.
• Work positively and respectfully alongside colleagues in a shared learning environment.
• Participate in team discussions, planning, and centre activities.
• Bring a positive attitude and willingness to learn and grow within the team.
• Assist in creating engaging, culturally responsive learning experiences.
• Help maintain inviting and stimulating learning environments.
• Contribute to documentation and celebration of children’s learning and development.
• Follow early childhood regulations, centre policies, and best practice guidelines.
• Show commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and culturally inclusive practice.
• Actively work towards an approved Early Childhood Education qualification and ongoing professional learning.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

You are a warm, caring, and motivated individual who is passionate about supporting young children’s learning and wellbeing. You enjoy building meaningful relationships and bring a positive, collaborative approach to working alongside children, families, and colleagues.

We are looking for someone who is culturally responsive and values working within a diverse community, including international families who may be new to New Zealand. You will bring empathy, patience, and strong communication skills, supporting children and families to feel welcomed, included, and confident within the centre environment.

You are proactive, willing to learn, and committed to developing your skills in early childhood education while working towards a recognised qualification. This is a busy and rewarding role that will suit someone who is organised, adaptable, and enjoys contributing to a supportive team environment.

Key requirements:

• Qualification that allows access to tertiary level study.
• Current First Aid certificate (or willingness to obtain).
• Good basic computing skills.
• Ability to meet early childhood education police vetting requirements.
• Physical capability for a role that includes active engagement and repeated lifting.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is enthusiastic about early childhood education and committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for children and families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.

Role Description: Click here to see further information, including salary details.

If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University career's page.

Close date for vacancy: 30 April 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Emily Lowe, Administrator, Campus Operations (emily.lowe@vuw.ac.nz).

We can only consider applicants who are citizens or residents of New Zealand or Australia or on a current working visa. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date.