Assistant Programme Manager - Vardon

Company Overview

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

The workplace culture is designed to be playful, energetic, and hands-on, with a strong focus on activities such as art, science, sport, cooking, and games.

Role Summary

The Assistant Programme Manager will help create a welcoming and enjoyable start and finish to the school day for children at the Vardon site. This position requires a minimum commitment of 10 hours each week, with shifts scheduled Monday through Friday.

Morning sessions run from 7:00 am to 8:30 am, while afternoon sessions run from 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Availability from 2:30 pm is essential, although actual finish times may change. There may also be additional hours during school holiday programmes, typically between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.

Key Duties

• Support the Programme Manager with the daily operation of the sKids programme so that sessions run smoothly and in an organised way.
• Act as the second-in-charge when needed, leading activities and taking responsibility when the Programme Manager is unavailable.
• Oversee and engage large groups of children while maintaining a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment.
• Help plan and run structured activities such as arts and crafts, sport, games, and offsite outings.
• Assist with managing challenging behaviour by using positive behaviour guidance and maintaining consistency within the team.
• Support Programme Assistants during shifts by setting expectations and ensuring activities stay on track.
• Develop positive, professional relationships with parents, caregivers, and school staff through clear communication.
• Help prepare resources, set up activities, and pack down at the end of sessions to keep each programme running efficiently.

Benefits

• 50% discount on selected sKids programmes, which may be useful for your own children.
• Referral bonus of up to $250 for each successful referral.
• No weekend shifts, plus free time during the middle of the day to support work-life balance.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support.
• A friendly, collaborative team environment that values support and celebrates achievements.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants should have the legal right to work in New Zealand, whether through citizenship or a valid visa. Reliable transport to the Vardon site is required.

Suitable candidates will have experience working with groups of children in settings such as OSCAR, childcare, coaching, teaching, camps, or similar environments. They should be able to take initiative, make decisions, and step into a leadership role when needed.

Experience handling behaviour in group settings is important, along with the ability to stay calm, firm, and supportive. The role also calls for a strong team player who can both support others and lead when required.

Good communication skills are essential for interacting with children, adults, parents, and school staff. Applicants must also be over 20 years of age in line with the Social Security (Childcare Assistance) Regulations 2004.

Additional Information

If shortlisted, a member of the team will contact the applicant. The role is intended to be an enjoyable, engaging opportunity where work feels lively and rewarding.

Safeguarding and Police Check

sKids maintains a strong commitment to child protection and the safeguarding of children and young people. Successful applicants must pass a satisfactory Police Record Check and must continue to hold the right to work in New Zealand.