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 our 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.
0.5FTE – 20 hours per week
Are you a passionate kaiako looking for a part-time role where you can make a real contribution to a kindergarten community?
We have an opportunity for a 0.5 FTE permanent Kaiako to join the team at Kew Kindergarten. This is to cover lunch breaks and a bit more!
We are looking for a positive, enthusiastic and collaborative kaiako who enjoys being part of a team and is committed to creating a welcoming, engaging environment where tamariki can learn, explore and thrive.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Holds a recognised ECE qualification within NZ
- Holds a current NZ Teaching Council registration
- Holds a current first aid certificate
- Builds strong, respectful relationships with tamariki, whānau and colleagues
- Brings energy, initiative and a positive approach to their work
- Values play-based learning and recognises the importance of allowing tamariki to explore, discover and develop at their own pace
- Enjoys working collaboratively and contributing their ideas and strengths to the wider team
- Is reflective, adaptable and open to continued professional growth
This is a 0.5 FTE position, offering a great opportunity for someone looking for the balance of a part-time teaching role while still being an active and valued member of a kindergarten team.
As part of SKA you’ll also be connected to our wider network of kindergartens and kaiako, with access to professional learning, support and opportunities to grow.
If Kew Kindergarten sounds like somewhere you could see yourself, we’d really like to hear from you.
Please send your CV and cover letter to job@ska.co.nz
Applications close: Sunday 30 August 2026
Please note: We are not an accredited employer and cannot support visa applications. We do not accept overseas applications and will not respond to these.
- 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.