ECE Caregiver (BestStart Melling)
Join our whanau – where curiosity, creativity, and community come together!
BestStart Melling is on the lookout for a passionate and caring Caregiver to join our energetic and close-knit team. We're dedicated to providing quality care and education to the tamariki in our community, celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of belonging for every child and adult who walks through our doors.
About Us
BestStart Melling is a purpose-built centre catering for tamariki aged 3 months to 5 years. We're proud to be part of a culturally rich and diverse team, embracing and learning from each other's backgrounds. Our team culture is supportive, inclusive, and encouraging, with a strong focus on mentoring and professional growth.
We have a vibrant community connection, from visits to local businesses, cafes, and retirement homes, to welcoming special guests into our centre. These experiences help our tamariki feel connected to the wider world and develop confidence, empathy, and curiosity.Every family who joins us becomes part of the BestStart Melling whanau.
About the Waita Preschool (4–5 year olds)
Welcome to our dynamic Waita Preschool, where curiosity meets creativity! Here, tamariki are empowered to explore, experiment, and express themselves through play-based learning. Our Set for School programme blends literacy, numeracy, and science into everyday play, preparing children with the skills they need for school and beyond.
We celebrate cultural identity, encourage social-emotional growth, and build strong partnerships with families to ensure every child thrives.
About the Role
As a Caregiver, you'll play an essential part in creating a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for our tamariki. You'll work alongside our talented kaiako to support learning, build relationships, and bring positive energy to our day-to-day routines.
Your day will include:
- Providing high-quality care and education for our tamariki
- Engaging in fun, meaningful learning experiences
- Supporting centre routines and teamwork across classrooms
- Helping create a warm, inclusive, and joyful atmosphere
This is a permanent, full-time position (40 hours per week, Monday–Friday, 8.30am–5.00pm).
What We're Looking For
You don't need an ECE qualification for this role, but we'd love to hear from you if you:
- Have experience working with children under five
- Bring warmth, patience, and enthusiasm to your work
- Are a great team player who takes initiative and direction well
- Are passionate about making a positive difference in children's lives
Why Choose BestStart?
We're committed to being a progressive, adaptable leader in early childhood education, where our people are recognised for the incredible impact they make.
Our benefits include:
- Learning through Whare Ako, our online learning platform
- Career development support to help you grow your skills
- Discounted childcare for your own tamariki
- Subsidised health insurance* and free flu vaccinations
- Confidential counselling and wellbeing programmes
- Sick leave from day one
- One week's additional leave for 10 years' service
- Refer a Qualified Teacher and receive $2000*
Ready to join our Melling whanau? Click Apply Now and become part of a centre that celebrates growth, connection, and the joy of learning every day.