Careers
Join the Team
At Southland Kindergartens Association, tamariki and their whānau are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to forming supportive and respectful relationships with each family, recognising the unique strengths and needs of every child. Our approach is centred around creating a warm and inclusive environment where tamariki feel safe, valued, and supported to learn at their own pace.
Why work for SKA?
Being part of our SKA means you would be part of a community focussed organisation and actively involved in contributing to the well-being and development of our local tamariki. You will be supporting equitable access to quality education, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
We recognise the importance of growth through professional learning opportunities being supported on a regular basis. For our Kaiako this is further supported by way of the Kindergarten Teachers Collective Agreement, which can be found here.
With 24 locations throughout Southland we have many internal opportunities for change and to support our staff to grow and evolve.
Our operational roles play a crucial part in delivering an excellent ECE service to our community and we have a strong focus on ensuring our staff are supported to carry these roles the best we can.
We welcome your enquiry to become part of our team and help us support our Southland Community.
Job Vacancies
We have the following vacancies available.
Grasmere Kindergarten is seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Kaiako to join our team in a permanent 0.5 FTE position.
This is an exciting opportunity for a kaiako who is eager to be part of a collaborative and supportive teaching environment where relationships, play-based learning, and quality outcomes for tamariki are highly valued. At Grasmere Kindergarten, we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where tamariki feel a strong sense of belonging and are supported to learn and grow through meaningful experiences, exploration, and positive relationships.
We are looking for someone who:
- Holds a recognised ECE qualification
- Holds a current practising certificate
- Holds a current first aid certificate
- Builds warm, respectful relationships with tamariki, whānau, and colleagues
- Brings enthusiasm, flexibility, and a positive team-focused approach
- Has excellent communication and reflective practice skills
- Is committed to contributing positively to our kindergarten community
What We Offer:
- A supportive and collaborative teaching team
- Ongoing professional growth opportunities
- A well-resourced learning environment
- Terms and Conditions as per the Kindergarten Teachers Collective Agreement (KTCA)
- A positive and welcoming kindergarten culture
To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to jobs@ska.co.nz. Please quote job G05 within your application.
Applications close: Sunday 4th October 2026
Please note we are not an accredited employer and are unable to support visas.
- Invercargill
- Northern Southland
- Gore
- Fiordland
We have many opportunities for relievers! With our kindergartens moving to full year over 2026 (no term breaks) it means we have plenty of work available around the region to help cover various leave.
This is a role that might suit you to have flexibility to pick the shifts that work for you, rather than joining us on a permanent basis. Its also a great way to move into the amazing world of Kindergarten teaching and work along our experienced kaiako.
If you’re keen to apply, you need:
- Hold a Bachelors Degree in ECE (or equivalent NZ recognised qualification)
- Registered with NZ Teaching Council
- Current First Aid Certificate.
Pop through your CV and cover letter to apply at jobs@ska.co.nz.
If you are overseas, please do not apply as we are unable to support visas.
Relievers
We have opportunities for relievers too – it might suit you to have flexibility to pick the shifts that work for you, rather than joining us on a permanent basis.
We are always on the lookout for:
- Qualified Relievers
- Kindergarten Support – Untrained
If you’re interested, send your CV and cover letter to hr@ska.co.nz
Want to know more? Phone us on (03) 2140 237 or complete the contact form below.