ECE Caregiver (BestStart Taita)
BestStart Taita is seeking a passionate and dedicated Caregiver to join our energetic and close-knit team. Our centre is committed to providing high-quality education and care for the tamariki in our community, and we are looking for someone who shares our values and enthusiasm.
About Our Centre
Located in the heart of Taita, Lower Hutt, our centre sits beside the local library and the Walter Nash Centre, surrounded by cultural events, sports facilities, and community services. We are based in the community's former RSA building, and our philosophy is represented through a six-petal poppy, honouring our whakapapa and the learning outcomes we aspire to for every child.
Our environment is warm, welcoming, and home-like. Guided by Te Whariki and inspired by a Curiosity Approach, we encourage tamariki to explore, discover, and grow at their own pace.
What Makes BestStart Taita Special- A culture of respect and inclusion, celebrating the unique backgrounds of every tamaiti and whanau
- A learning environment built on curiosity, play, and hands-on experiences
- A supportive team that values open communication, collaboration, and professional growth
- A joyful, creative atmosphere where meaningful moments happen every day
Your Role as a Caregiver
As a valued member of our teaching whanau, you will:
- Provide warm, responsive, and respectful care for tamariki
- Support children's learning through play, exploration, and daily routines
- Build strong, trusting relationships with tamariki, whanau, and colleagues
- Assist with mealtimes, sleep routines, and care needs
- Work alongside qualified teachers to create an engaging and nurturing environment
- Participate across all classrooms and support centre operations, including staff break coverage
- A caring, patient nature and a genuine love for working with young children
- A positive team player with strong communication skills
- Someone with initiative and the ability to take direction
- Experience working with children under five is essential
- An ECE qualification is not required, but a commitment to learning and growing is important
Why Choose BestStart
At BestStart, we are committed to being a progressive and adaptable leader in the ECE sector. We recognise and celebrate the positive impact our teachers and caregivers make every day.
You'll enjoy:
- Professional learning through our Whare Ako online platform
- Career development support
- A $2000 referral bonus for referring a qualified teacher*
- Discounted childcare
- Subsidised health insurance*
- Free annual flu vaccinations
- Confidential EAP counselling
- Wellbeing programme
- Sick leave available from your first day
- One week of additional leave after 10 years of service
- Permanent, full-time
- 40 hours per week, Monday–Friday
- Reporting to the Centre Manager and working within a supportive, collaborative team
How to Apply: If you are ready to make a meaningful difference and join a warm, community-focused centre, we would love to hear from you. Click “Apply Now” to join the BestStart Taita whanau. We look forward to welcoming you.