HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes
Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our ākonga in our education system.

ABOUT YOU | MŌHOU AKE

You will be a highly experienced current or recently retired school Principal (within the last 12 months.
We are looking for deep first-hand knowledge of the principal’s role and their responsibilities and the ability to work well across the sector.
You will have had experience as a rural and / small school teaching Principal.

• Rural and Small School Teaching Principal
• Commencing 28 January 2026
• Fixed-term, full-time role
• South Island
  There is a vacancy for a Rural and Small School Teaching Principal based in and serving the South Island region.
  This is a 1 – 2-year secondment position and will commence on the 28th of January 2026.
  In addition to the regional roles, the expanded Leadership Advisory service is looking to fill a range of special focus roles. These roles will provide more nuanced support to specific parts of the principal sector in the region and beyond.
  These Leadership Advisors will provide dedicated and responsive support to specific parts of the principal/ school sector across broader geographic areas We are looking for experienced principals with successful sector experience and strong connections within the network to share your experience, provide advice, coaching and support to others in similar situations.
  The Rural & Small School teaching principal leadership advisor (South Island) will work with Te Mahau and the sector to develop innovative and effective ways to assist with the unique challenges faced by rural & small schools as teaching principals.
  Special focus leadership advisors will work with the sector and Te Mahau to develop innovative and effective ways to meet the current and emerging needs of principals. They will also form effective relationships with Te Mahau across the regions they serve, will work closely with the other special focus advisor in their sector and collaboratively with leadership advisors across New Zealand.
  You will report to the Director of Education in your rohe and be supported nationally by the Chief Advisor.
  You will use your knowledge, expertise and experience to provide support and advice, addressing issues where and when they arise as a highly trusted educational professional. Your focus will be on improving leadership capability in schools and kura.
  You will work closely with regional colleagues and play a key role in facilitating the sharing of good practice across the system, supporting collaborative networks such as clusters of schools, to shape innovative approaches to curriculum design and teaching and learning.
  You can view and download the Expression of Interest (EOI) form here
  Applicant’s current /most recent terms of employment and remuneration will apply.