Job Description
We are looking for amazing people who want to serve Aotearoa’s communities, and who DO NOT currently have a teaching degree.
He aha e hono mai ai ki a matou? Why join us?
Aotearoa has one of the highest levels of educational inequality in the developed world, with an education system that is 4X as likely to fail a student from a low-income community. As part of a national movement, Ako Matatupu works to disrupt the inequities that exist in Aotearoa which mean that, unfairly, some young people are significantly less able to fulfil their potential than others. The Teach First NZ Programme is your opportunity to transform the lives of others whilst also transforming your own.
He korero mou: About you
You believe in supporting and challenging people to reach their full potential, helping others to feel valued equally and using your passions, beliefs, knowledge and talents to motivate others.
You have strong relationship building skills, a proven record of achievement and possess a genuine desire to use your skills to make a real difference. You’re also someone who combines a strong work ethic and self-discipline with warmth, empathy, and humility and a genuine openness to learning.
Nga ahuatanga kei a matou: What we offer
“Our true testament is that we are committed to changing the world; and to holding courageous spaces where others might step up and make change with us” – Dr Michelle Johansson, Ako Matatupu. Ako Matatupu: Teach First NZ is an innovative not-for-profit organisation, and our vision is that all young people in Aotearoa reach their full potential, on their own terms. We do this by supporting outstanding people to address the causes of educational inequality which exist both within and beyond school. We develop outstanding individuals into highly effective teachers and inspirational leaders, who work to address one of New Zealand’s most pressing issues – educational inequality.
We believe two things can make a big difference to educational inequality:
Great teachers working to raise aspiration and achievement in high-need classrooms; and
Leaders in all parts of our society, equipped with the skills to affect large-scale change.
He angitutanga: The opportunity
Our programme provides carefully selected participants with the opportunity to have a meaningful career, working to make an impact. After undertaking a two month intensive training period between November and January, participants begin work as a part-time (0.6 FTTE) teacher in a secondary school that serves a low socioeconomic community. Over the 2 years of the programme participants receive in-school mentoring (0.2 FTTE) and study towards a fully scholarshipped Postgraduate Diploma of Teaching.
The Teach First NZ programme offers a big challenge that comes with autonomy, challenge, and reward. You will not only see the real and tangible impact that you can have on your students and the community, but will also receive a full-time salary and a full scholarship towards your Postgraduate Diploma of Teaching.
For many of our participants, the end of the two-year programme marks the next step in their careers as they take on leadership positions in schools and the wider community (charities, government, business) and where they continue working to address educational inequality.
Work with us to lead the future.
Hei whakauru: Application details
Make 2020 the year you make a difference in the world and change lives, including your own.
Are you eligible?Check your eligibility here:
Learn more:
Apply today, and work with us to lead the future:
Contact details
For more details, eligibility criteria and to apply, visit our website,call us on 0800 TO LEAD or email us at
