Geraldine District Free Kindergarten Association · Canterbury
Head Teacher
Early learningFull-time, Permanent
Geraldine District Free Kindergarten Association is seeking a full-time, permanent Head Teacher in Geraldine, Canterbury, to lead a new kindergarten for 27 children under 2½. The role includes establishing the service, appointing staff, completing licensing and opening, with hours generally from 8.30am to 4.30pm. Applicants need ECE qualifications, current Teaching Council registration and practising certification, and a first aid certificate.
- New kindergarten for children under 2½
- Lead staffing, licensing and opening
- Full-time permanent position
- Current first aid certificate required
Closes in 15 days
Applications close 20 Nov 2026, 5pm.
Read the full listing and applyOpens the Education Gazette, where the school takes applications.
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About the role
Lead the establishment and daily operation of a new full-time kindergarten for 27 children under two and a half. This permanent Head Teacher role covers the 8.30am–4.30pm operating day, with hours responsive to community needs, and includes appointing staff, supporting licensing, and preparing for children to attend. Work closely with the general manager and the Head Teacher of the existing kindergarten.
What they’re looking for
- ECE qualification and current New Zealand Teaching Council practising certificate
- Current first aid certificate
- Up-to-date understanding of early childhood education practice
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice
- Leadership that strengthens teaching, learning and team culture
- Initiative and effective professional problem-solving
About the school
Geraldine District Free Kindergarten Association is growing from one to two kindergartens and has provided early childhood education for 75 years. It is part of a wider Central South Island kindergarten support network, with senior teacher guidance, links to three other associations, and a respectful, non-judgemental team culture.
How to apply
Send a CV and cover letter to the general manager. Applications close on 20 November 2026.
Written by Teachroles from the school’s listing. AI can make mistakes; check the original before you apply.
The role
- Sector
- Early learning
- Role
- Head teacher
- Hours
- full time
- Tenure
- permanent
- Listed
- 30 Oct 2026
In the school’s words
“We are expanding from 1 to 2 kindergartens. The current kindergarten roll will be 40 children 2 1/2 and over and the new kindergarten 27 children under 2 1/2. Hours of operation 8.30am to 4.30pm (this may vary due to…”