Learn While You Work
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to teach, this is your chance to find out.
As a Teacher in Training, you’ll work in one of BestStart’s 260 centres across Aotearoa, supporting tamariki as they explore, play, and learn. You’ll help set up creative activities, read stories, join outdoor adventures, and discover just how much joy and laughter comes with the job.
Each day is different, and that’s the beauty of it. You’ll be surrounded by qualified educators who will mentor and guide you, showing you how to turn what you’re studying into real teaching moments.
Why BestStart Is Different
BestStart isn’t just New Zealand’s largest early childhood education provider. With more than 260 centres nationwide, it’s a community built on care, learning and fun.
From your very first day, you’re not treated like “just a student.” You’re part of a team that values your ideas, celebrates your wins, and helps you build confidence in your practice.
BestStart’s purpose is simple: to make a positive difference in the lives of children. But that purpose extends to its people too. You’ll find a workplace where you’re encouraged to be yourself, keep learning, and feel proud of the impact you make every day.
Support That Sets You Up for Success
Starting your teaching journey can feel exciting and a little nerve-racking, but you won’t be doing it alone.
Every Teacher in Training at BestStart is paired with a qualified mentor who helps you connect your study with your day-to-day work. You’ll have regular check-ins, feedback, and professional learning opportunities designed to build your skills and confidence over time.
Plus, BestStart understands that life doesn’t stop when you start studying. You’ll have flexibility to balance your work hours with your study schedule, giving you space to stay on top of both.
Earn, Learn and Get Ahead
One of the best things about this programme is that you’ll earn an income while studying. That means real-world experience, real pay, and a real head start in your career.
By the time you graduate, you won’t just have a qualification. You’ll have years of hands-on experience and professional confidence to match.
And once you’re qualified and registered, your opportunities open right up. You could move into a Qualified Teacher role, step into leadership as a Head Teacher or Centre Manager, or explore specialised settings like Montessori or bilingual centres.
At BestStart, your career grows as you do.
What It’s Like Day to Day
Every day as a Teacher in Training is a mix of fun, creativity and learning for you and the children.
You might spend the morning helping tamariki build towers taller than you, then end the day covered in paint after a big art session. In between, you’ll be learning how to observe, plan and reflect, putting your study into action in real, meaningful ways.
It’s busy, it’s rewarding, and no two days are ever the same.
Ready to Start Your Teaching Journey?
If you’re studying early childhood education or thinking about enrolling soon, BestStart’s Teacher in Training programme is your first big step into the classroom.
You’ll earn, learn and grow in a place that values curiosity, kindness and progress. Most importantly, you’ll start making a difference from day one.
Click here to explore BestStart’s Teacher in Training opportunities and take the first step toward your teaching career.
