What does a Pioneers home-based educator do?
A home-based educator works in their own home to provide care and education for children under the age of six years. Home-based educators have a maximum of four children in their care (including the educator’s own child/ren) and only two of the four children will be under two years of age.
Do I need particular qualifications and previous experience?
Our educators have a range of experiences, training and unique skills to offer but all have a love of children. As a minimum requirement you must hold or be studying towards a level 4 Certificate in Early Childhood Education through the Open Polytechnic of NZ. You are able to complete this qualification while working as a home-based educator.
Who will support me with my study?
Pioneers will support you by paying the fees and through the Visiting Teacher mentoring programme.
Are there any other requirements?
You must be able to offer a suitable home environment both indoors and outdoors and your home must meet all Ministry of Education Health and Safety requirements. You will be required to hold a current First Aid Certificate and training is provided.
As a home-based educator you will need to provide resources and a learning programme for children and be able to record children’s learning with support from your Visiting Teacher. You will be expected to be involved in on-going professional development with support from Pioneers.
Pioneers Home-based Educators work as independent contractors so you will need to be able to generate your own business through self promotion and community networks. You will need to hold NZ residency or a current NZ work permit and be over 20 years of age.
You must meet all Pioneers’ policies and procedures.
How do I know I’d be suited to this role?
We’d love to hear from you if you are someone who:
- Is enthusiastic and has a genuine interest in supporting children’s learning and development
- Has positive skills working with children and families
- Has a sense of humour and is warm and approachable
- Is reliable, trustworthy and flexible
- Has good written and oral communication skills
- Is self-motivated and has good self-management skills
- Responds positively to suggestions and guidance
What do other Educators enjoy about this role?
Many home-based educators are attracted to this role because it enables them to work from home while still being with their own children. Even if you are not a trained teacher, this is a chance to gain a recognised qualification, paid for by Pioneers, and while earning an income. It’s a great way to grow self-confidence and skills in working with young children.
Reimbursements rates are competitive. There’s plenty of opportunity for on-going training and educational qualifications are recognised in increased rates. If you are career-focused this is a fantastic opportunity to grow your own business and livelihood.
Even though you are working from home you have plenty of professional support and there is a comprehensive induction process for new educators. Qualified and experienced Visiting Teachers make regular visits and keep in contact to offer one to one advice and guidance. They will also interview potential families and support you in developing relationships with new parents.
Free high quality resources and equipment are available for you to use in your programme and there are opportunities to attend weekly playgroups, gym, bikes and music groups and organised group excursions.
You will be meeting lots of new people, including the children and their families as well as other educators, and will have the opportunity to develop life-long friendships for you and your children.
How will I be paid?
As a home-based educator you will work as an independent contractor and rates of reimbursement will be dependent on your level of training.
You will not be required to handle invoices or payments, these are all managed by the Pioneers administration team.
