Programme Lead - Woolston, Christchurch

Add expected salary to your profile for insights

Lead life-changing programmes that empower rangatahi across Aotearoa

Inspire the next generation through mentoring, enterprise, and adventure

Play a key role in a trusted youth development organisation with nearly 100 years of impact

Youthtown is growing and we’re ready to do more for young people across Aotearoa!

With nearly a century of experience, we’re one of New Zealand’s most trusted youth development organisations. Now we’re entering an exciting new chapter, bringing bold and innovative programmes to more communities so rangatahi can discover their strengths, grow their skills, and thrive in every part of life.

We’re looking for a passionate and dynamic Programme Lead to help bring this vision to life.

What you’ll do…

In this hands-on role, you will lead and deliver life-changing programmes that grow confidence, resilience, and essential skills in young people. From youth mentoring to learner licence and leadership programmes, you’ll create experiences that ignite potential and open doors to new opportunities. You’ll also be a part of delivering our Youth Employability Programme, equipping rangatahi with the tools, skills, and confidence they need to step into the world of work and thrive in their future careers.

Working directly with rangatahi, schools, and community partners, you’ll ensure every programme is values-led, inspiring, and unforgettable. This is a permanent part-time role (20 hours per week), based at our Woolston office with programme delivery across Christchurch. Flexibility is key, as you will be required to work evenings and some weekends.

What we’re looking for…

You’ll bring energy, empathy, and a proven ability to connect with young people. You’re a skilled communicator and facilitator who thrives in both programme delivery and team leadership. You know how to juggle logistics with frontline engagement and how to inspire belief in what young people can achieve.

Experience in youth development or education is an advantage, but what matters most is your drive to empower rangatahi. You’ll also bring strong relationship-building skills with schools, partners, and community stakeholders.

A full, clean NZ driver’s licence (with at least 2 years’ driving experience) is essential.

What you’ll bring…

With experience leading programmes or working in youth-focused environments, you’ll bring a natural ability to inspire and connect with rangatahi. You’re confident managing both people and projects, balancing programme logistics with hands-on delivery, and adapting to the needs of young people in the moment. You thrive in a collaborative, values-driven environment and bring flexibility, resilience, and initiative to everything you do. You’re culturally responsive, purpose-led, and passionate about creating opportunities that empower young people to be their best.

Why Youthtown?

Joining the Youthtown whānau means contributing to a team that’s dedicated to empowering young people and communities across Aotearoa. We offer a supportive and inclusive workplace, backed by a comprehensive range of employee benefits including Birthday Leave, Wellbeing Leave, access to Employee Assistance Programme, and a structured Wellbeing & Engagement programme. You’ll be part of a collaborative environment that values continuous learning, personal development, and genuine connection alongside colleagues who share your passion for making a difference.

APPLY NOW! If you’re confident in developing, implementing and delivering programmes for young people, we want to hear from you!

We’ll be reviewing applications as they come in so apply now!

Applications : Click on the application link and attach your CV and cover letter. We really love reading your cover letters so make sure you don’t forget this step!

Note that Youthtown is committed to Child Protection and the safeguarding of children and young people in our care. It is our expectation that all staff will operate in a way that reflects this intent and the intent of the Vulnerable Children Act (2014) to improve the well-being of vulnerable children. Appointment to this role will be subject to a satisfactory Police Record Check.

Unlock job insights

Salary match Number of applicants Skills match

Your application will include the following questions :

• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?
• How many years' experience do you have as a Program Leader?
• Do you have a current New Zealand driver's licence?
• How much notice are you required to give your current employer?
• Do you own or have regular access to a car?
• What's your expected hourly rate?
• How many years' experience do you have as a Youth Mentor?

McLaren Recruitment – in business since 1989

4d ago

Researching careers? Find all the information and tips you need on career advice.

#J-18808-Ljbffr