ECE Caregiver (BestStart Montessori The Gardens)

ECE Caregiver (BestStart Montessori The Gardens) BestStart Education – Dunedin, South Island BestStart Montessori The Gardens is looking for a nurturing, enthusiastic, and passionate Caregiver to join our dedicated Montessori toddler room team . This is a permanent, full-time position working 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday , caring for and supporting our tamariki aged 2 to 3.5 years . Our centre has been a valued part of the community for over 20 years, with strong connections to local families and a well-established team of experienced educators. At BestStart Montessori The Gardens, we nurture kind, respectful, and independent learners through the Montessori philosophy, creating a calm and engaging environment where children are empowered to learn through self-discovery. We celebrate the diverse cultures, languages, and identities of our tamariki and whānau and believe that strong partnerships with families are at the heart of creating meaningful learning experiences. Our toddler room provides a warm, supportive environment where children are encouraged to develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning at their own pace. Why choose us? At BestStart, we're committed to being a progressive and adaptable leader in the ECE sector, where our people are recognised for the positive difference they make in children's lives. Our benefits include: Learning through Whare Ako, our online learning platform Ongoing professional development and career growth opportunities Refer a Qualified Teacher and receive $2,000* Discounted childcare Your health and wellbeing are our priority. We offer: Subsidised health insurance* Free annual flu vaccinations Confidential counselling through EAP Sick leave from your first day of employment An additional week of leave after 10 years of service About the Role As a Caregiver in our Montessori toddler room, you'll play an important role in supporting the care, learning, and development of children aged 2 to 3.5 years. You'll work alongside a passionate team to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where toddlers can explore, grow, and thrive. Reporting to the Centre Manager and working closely with our teaching team, you'll help build strong relationships with children and whānau while contributing to the smooth day-to-day operation of the centre. Key responsibilities include: Providing exceptional care and support for our tamariki Building warm, responsive relationships with children aged 2 to 3.5 years Supporting learning through play and Montessori-inspired experiences Contributing to a positive team culture and collaborative environment Participating across centre activities and assisting with staff break cover when required Supporting centre operations and maintaining a safe, welcoming environment Role Requirements We're looking for someone who genuinely loves working with young children and is committed to making a positive difference in their lives. While an ECE qualification is not required, you will have: Experience working with children under five years of age A natural affinity with children, particularly toddlers A nurturing, positive, and enthusiastic approach Strong initiative and the ability to work as part of a team A willingness to learn and embrace the Montessori philosophy #J-18808-Ljbffr