The Power of a 4-Day Work Week in ECE
- threetreesece
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
Imagine a workplace where teachers feel restored, not depleted. Where energy is sustained, not stretched. Where time off doesn’t mean falling behind—but catching up with life.
That’s the difference a 4-day work week can make. And in our early childhood education centres, it’s more than an idea—it’s a reality.
Why It Works in ECE
ECE is emotionally rich, physically demanding work. It requires presence, patience, and relational energy—qualities that are hard to sustain when you’re running on empty. The traditional five-day model, especially in education, often leads to cumulative exhaustion.
That’s why we’ve reimagined the rhythm of the work week.
Our centres offer a 4-day working week, without sacrificing pay, leave, or staffing consistency. We staff intentionally so that coverage is smooth and fair. Teachers work full-time across four days—and enjoy a consistent extra day to rest, reset, or spend time with whānau.
What It Looks Like
Teachers are rostered for four longer days (usually 8–9 hours), with a fifth day off.
Teams rotate to ensure equitable time off.
No leave is deducted for the fifth day—it’s simply part of the structure.
Planning, meetings, and professional development are scheduled intentionally so staff still feel connected and upskilled without overwhelm.
The Benefits Are Tangible
Lower burnout: With more time to recharge, teachers are more focused and present.
Higher retention: Staff are more likely to stay in roles that honour their wellbeing.
Stronger engagement: A rested teacher is a responsive, creative teacher.
Greater loyalty: Our team knows we care not just about what they do—but how they live.
Because Life Happens Outside of Work Too
This isn’t about working less—it’s about living more. When teachers can attend their child’s assembly, rest their bodies, pursue further study, or simply enjoy a slower morning, they come back fuller. And full cups pour freely.
In a sector that often asks for more while offering less, we’ve chosen to flip the script.
Coming Next: More than Leave: How Flexibility and Fairness Build Trust
Comments