Whanau Support Worker - Early Childhood Education
Anglican Care Waiapu (ACW), is the social services arm of the Anglican Diocese of Waiapu. We have eight Early Childhood Education centres across the Bay of Plenty, Tairawhiti and Hawkes Bay. Waiapu Kids St Francis, Merivale and Te Hapara are Whanau Aroha services which provide early childhood education and wrap around support to tamariki and whanau.
Waiapu Kids St Francis is a Whanau Aroha centre, we are committed to fostering a nurturing environment that prioritises self-determination, early intervention, and holistic support for our tamariki and their whanau.
Mo te turanga | About the role
The Whanau Support Worker is a new role. It will work closely with the ECE Services Manager and teaching team to support and empower tamariki and whanau to realise their aspirations and enhance their wellbeing. This role is a permanent part time role based in Rotorua.
Working in an early childhood setting, the role is diverse and impactful. You will advocate for whanau, provide guidance and support, and help families access the resources and services that enhance the wellbeing of their tamariki and whanau.Your strong coaching skills empower families to achieve their goals, ensuring that each tamariki and whanau are equipped to reach their full potential.
Key responsibilities include:- Advocacy for the needs and rights of tamariki and their whanau
- Provide support and guidance to whanau, fostering self-determination in decision-making.
- Build relationships with whanau, identifying strengths and aspirations and facilitate access to appropriate resources and services.
- Develop individualised plans in partnership with whanau and staff.
- Promote positive relationships and create a welcoming, supportive environment for whanau.
- Maintain professional boundaries while building trusting relationships with whanau.
- Collaborate and partner with external agencies and social services to enhance support for whanau.
Ko ta Matou e rapu ana/What we’re looking for
As the Whanau Support Worker you will have unconditional aroha for the people and communities you serve, upholding and displaying mana with every interaction.
This role would suit someone who has the following:- Experience working in social services, ECE or a related field.
- An understanding of trauma informed practice, mental health, addictions and family dynamics (preferred but not mandatory).
- Strong community networks with the ability to engage and work with diverse backgrounds
- Excellent advocacy, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Coaching or mentoring experience, with the ability to inspire and empower others.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain professional boundaries.
- Lived life experience that provides unique insights into the challenges faced by families.
- Experience in programme delivery
- Relevant qualifications or certifications in health, social services, early childhood education, or related areas (preferred but not mandatory).
- Basic understanding of Te Reo, tikanga, matauranga and Te Tiriti and willingness to grow in this area
Ta matou e tuku | What we offer
You will be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a difference in the lives of tamariki and their whanau. We offer:- A competitive salary
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities
- Free ECE for your Under 5’s (if applicable)
- Supportive work environment
- Additional leave - Birthday and ‘Soul Care’ leave days
- Work/life balance (this is important to us!)
If you are ready to make a positive impact and support our tamariki and whanau, please visit our website https://acw.org.nz/work-with-us/ to view the position description and complete the application form.
This position closes on 13 June 2025. Please note we will not be screening applications until after the closing date, and responses will be provided in due course.
Anglican Care Waiapu is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. We take steps to achieve this through our candidate application process. All applicants are required to complete a NZ Police Request & Consent form and a full Police Check will be conducted along with full reference checks.Employment is subject to clearance of all these checks to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people and in accordance with The Children’s Act.
Weblink: www.acw.org.nz