The YMCA Gisborne operates two Early Childhood Centres, including Te Whare Kohungahunga o Y Tamariki, our bilingual early learning centre located in Kaiti. We are currently seeking two qualified and registered Early Childhood Teacher’s to join our passionate teaching team. One in our 0–2-year-old ruma and one in our 2-3 year old ruma.

Our centre offers three age-appropriate ruma, thoughtfully designed to support tamariki at every stage of their developmental journey, along with two spacious, separate outdoor play areas that encourage exploration, movement, and connection with nature.

About the Role

As a Registered ECE Teacher, you will play a key role in delivering a high-quality, nurturing education programme aligned with Te Whāriki, while supporting the YMCA’s values and centre objectives. You will work collaboratively with kaiako, whānau, and the wider community to create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for our youngest learners.

We’re Looking for Someone Who Is:

• Caring, warm, and enthusiastic about working with tamariki

• A team player with a positive attitude and strong work ethic

• Flexible and adaptable to meet the needs of a busy ECE environment

• Motivated and ready for a rewarding professional challenge

• Open to and respectful of te ao Māori (knowledge of te reo Māori is a bonus, but not essential)

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Delivering high-quality teaching and learning experiences based on Te Whāriki

• Using assessment as a conscious practice of noticing, recognising, and responding

• Creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment

• Building strong, respectful relationships with children, parents/whānau, and colleagues

• Supporting children’s care routines as meaningful opportunities for learning and connection

• Upholding health and safety best practice

• Contributing positively to centre operations, administration, and professional learning

• Reflecting on practice to support continuous improvement

Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor or Diploma of Teaching (ECE) – minimum requirement

• Current New Zealand Teacher Registration and Practising Certificate

• At least two years’ experience in a New Zealand ECE setting preferred

• Understanding of ECE Regulations and centre policies

• Ability to develop and evaluate child-appropriate programmes

• Competent ICT skills

• Intermediate te reo Māori is an advantage

Benefits of Working for the YMCA

• Pay Parity employer

• Subsidised childcare

• Subsidised OSCAR after school and holiday programmes (criteria applies)

• Free gym membership including Les Mills classes

• Supportive, values-driven organisation with a strong community focus

Ready to Apply? 

If you are a registered ECE teacher who thrives in a nurturing, community-focused environment, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and Cover Letter to Annie at hr@ymcagisborne.nz.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Annie, our HR Coordinator on hr@ymcagisborne.nz