Job Description

At sKids, we believe childhood should be full of laughter, learning, and adventure! Since 1996, we’ve been creating awesome out-of-school experiences for tamariki across New Zealand. Today, we welcome more than 3,800 kids every day at over 170 school sites – and we’re still growing!

When you work with us, you get to unleash your inner child. Think: messy art, science experiments, sports showdowns, cooking classes, and plenty of silly games. No two days are the same – and that’s how we like it!

As a Programme Manager, you’ll be the friendly face that makes the mornings & afternoons unforgettable for children. You’ll be working a minimum of 15 hours per week, rostered across Monday to Friday

• Afternoon/ After School shifts runs between 2.30pm–6.00pm. Availability from 2.30pm is essential, though finish times may vary.
• Potential school holiday programmes hours available (between 7am - 6pm).

Here’s what you’ll be up to

• Take full ownership of the day-to-day running of our sKids programme – ensuring smooth, structured operations from set-up through to pack-down
• Lead and manage a large group of children, confidently handling a range of behaviours and creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment
• Plan and deliver structured activities including arts & crafts, sports, games, offsite trips (e.g. swimming, walks, picnics), baking, drama, and music
• Proactively manage challenging behaviour and support tamariki with varying needs using positive guidance strategies
• Build strong, professional relationships with parents, caregivers, and school staff as the key point of contact onsite
• Lead, coach, and delegate to Programme Assistants to ensure high standards, accountability, and a well-run programme
• Prepare in advance – organising resources, planning activities, and setting clear expectations for your team to ensure each session runs seamlessly

Perks & Benefits

• 50% discount on selected sKids programmes – perfect for your own children!
• Referral bonus – bring awesome people into our team and earn up to $250 per referral
• Work-life balance – no weekend work and the middle of the day free for your own time
• Employee Assistance Programme – access wellbeing support when you need it
• A fun, supportive crew who love what they do and celebrate each other’s wins

Qualifications

We’d love to hear from you if you:

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Māori and Pasifika cultures, communities, and values, with prior experience or familiarity working alongside these communities to support strong community engagement.The legal right to work in New Zealand
• Have the legal right to work in New Zealand (valid visa or citizenship)
• Have reliable transport to get to our sKids Cosgrove site in Papakura
• Bring proven leadership experience working with groups of children (e.g. OSCAR programmes, teaching, coaching, childcare, camps, or similar environments)
• Are confident managing challenging behaviour and high-energy group environments, with the ability to stay calm, firm, and solution-focused
• Have experience taking ownership of programmes, teams, or operations, not just assisting
• Are a strong communicator who can confidently engage with parents, schools, and team members
• Are over the age of 20 years old (as per Social Security (Childcare Assistance) Regulations 2004)

Additional Information

Hit Apply Now – one of our friendly team will be in touch if you’re shortlisted. Get ready to start an exciting journey where work feels more like play!

Safeguarding

sKids is committed to Child Protection and the safeguarding of children and young people in our care and we expect all staff to operate in a way that reflects this intent. All successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory Police Record Check. All applicants must hold the right to work in New Zealand.