Assistant Programme Manager - Hamilton (Vardon school)

Company Overview

sKids has been focused on creating fun, enriching after-school experiences for children since 1996. Across New Zealand, the organisation now supports more than 3,800 children each day at over 170 school sites, and it continues to expand.

The workplace is designed to be energetic and child-focused, with activities such as art projects, science-based learning, sports, cooking, and games forming part of the everyday experience.

Role Summary

The Assistant Programme Manager role is based at the Vardon site in Hamilton and involves helping run engaging before-school and after-school sessions for tamariki. This is a part-time, school-based position with a minimum commitment of 10 hours each week, scheduled across Monday to Friday.

Morning sessions run from 7:00am to 8:30am. Afternoon sessions run from 2:30pm to 6:00pm, and availability from 2:30pm onward is essential. End times may vary depending on the day. Additional hours may be available during school holiday programmes, generally between 7:00am and 6:00pm.

Key Responsibilities

In this position, you will support the Programme Manager with the everyday operation of the programme and help keep sessions organised, safe, and enjoyable.

• Assist in the smooth daily delivery of the sKids programme.
• Act as second-in-charge when required and confidently take over sessions in the Programme Manager’s absence.
• Supervise and actively engage large groups of children while maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment.
• Help plan and run structured activities such as arts and crafts, sports, games, and offsite outings.
• Support positive behaviour management using calm, consistent, and encouraging approaches.
• Provide guidance to Programme Assistants on shift so activities and expectations stay on track.
• Maintain strong communication with parents, caregivers, and school staff.
• Assist with preparing resources, setting up, and packing down each session.

Perks and Benefits

• 50% discount on selected sKids programmes for your own children.
• Referral bonus of up to $250 for each successful referral.
• No weekend work, plus free time in the middle of the day to support work-life balance.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support.
• A supportive, upbeat team culture that values collaboration and celebrates success.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants should have the legal right to work in New Zealand, along with reliable transport to the Vardon site. Experience working with groups of children is important, whether through OSCAR, childcare, coaching, teaching, camps, or a similar setting.

The role suits someone who can step into a leadership position when needed, use good judgement, and make decisions confidently. Experience handling behaviour in group settings is also valuable, along with the ability to stay calm, firm, and supportive.

You should be comfortable working as part of a team while also leading others when necessary. Strong communication skills are needed for interactions with children, parents, caregivers, and school staff. Applicants must be over 20 years old in line with the Social Security (Childcare Assistance) Regulations 2004.

Additional Information

If shortlisted, a member of the team will contact you. Successful applicants will need to pass a satisfactory Police Record Check. The organisation is committed to child protection and safeguarding, and all staff are expected to work in line with that commitment.