Assistant Programme Manager - Darfield

Company Overview

sKids has been delivering after-school and before-school experiences for children across New Zealand since 1996. The organisation now supports more than 3,800 children each day at over 170 school locations and continues to expand.

The workplace culture is designed to be energetic, playful, and hands-on, with activities such as art projects, science experiments, sports, cooking, and games forming part of the day-to-day environment.

Role Overview

The Assistant Programme Manager will help create a positive, engaging, and well-run experience for children before and after school. This position requires at least 10 hours per week, scheduled Monday to Friday.

Morning shifts are typically between 7:00 am and 8:30 am. Afternoon shifts generally run from 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm, and availability from 2:30 pm onwards is essential, although the end time may vary. Additional hours may be available during school holiday programmes, with shifts potentially running between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.

Key Duties

• Assist the Programme Manager with the daily operation of the programme to keep activities organised and running efficiently.
• Act as second-in-charge when needed, leading sessions and taking responsibility in the Programme Manager’s absence.
• Oversee and interact with large groups of children to maintain a safe, welcoming, and enjoyable setting.
• Support the design and delivery of planned activities such as arts and crafts, sport, games, and outings.
• Help manage challenging behaviour by using positive guidance approaches and consistent expectations.
• Coach and support Programme Assistants during shifts so that duties and activities are carried out effectively.
• Communicate positively with parents, caregivers, and school personnel.
• Help prepare materials, set up spaces, and tidy down at the end of sessions so everything runs smoothly.

What We’re Looking For

Applicants should have the legal right to work in New Zealand, such as citizenship or a valid work visa. Reliable transport to the Darfield site is also required.

Experience working with groups of children is important, whether gained through OSCAR programmes, childcare, coaching, teaching, camps, or a similar environment. Candidates should be comfortable stepping into leadership when required, making decisions, and taking initiative.

You should also have some experience supporting behaviour management in group settings and be able to stay calm, firm, and encouraging. Strong teamwork skills are essential, along with the ability to both support others and lead when necessary.

Clear communication with children, parents, and school staff is expected. Applicants must be over 20 years of age in line with the Social Security (Childcare Assistance) Regulations 2004.

Benefits

• Half-price access to selected sKids programmes, which may be especially helpful for employees with children.
• Referral rewards of up to $250 for each successful recommendation.
• No weekend work, plus free time during the middle of the day to help with work-life balance.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support.
• A positive, supportive team environment where contributions are recognised and celebrated.

Additional Information

Selected candidates will be contacted by the team after applying. The role offers an opportunity to join a lively environment where the work is hands-on and child-focused.

Safeguarding and Checks

sKids places a strong focus on child protection and the safety of young people in its care. All successful applicants must pass a satisfactory Police Record Check and already have the legal right to work in New Zealand.