Early childhood education manager
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work early mornings
- Usually work indoors and outdoors at early childhood education centres
- Need to be responsible, organised and communicate well
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Manage teachers and other staff
- Oversee teaching and learning programmes
- Make sure children are safe and happy
- Run workshops for parents and caregivers
- Train teachers and staff
- Check on staff wellbeing
- Plan daily activities for children
- Follow programmes and regulations
- Monitor and record children’s learning progress
- Manage budgets and buy supplies
Outlook
Early childhood education services are adapting to changing regulations, teaching standards and whānau expectations. Across New Zealand, there is continued focus on quality early learning, culturally responsive practice and strong leadership in centres. Digital administration tools are becoming more common, helping services manage enrolments, communication and compliance. As the sector evolves, effective leadership remains important for supporting high-quality learning experiences for young children.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Leadership and team management skills
- Strong communication with staff and families
- Understanding of early learning regulations and standards
- Organisation and planning skills
- Commitment to child wellbeing and quality education
- Ability to lead positive change and improvement
Professional registration
Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand
04 471 0852
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.