Curriculum Advisor

About the role

We are seeking a permanent, full-time Curriculum Advisor based in Whanganui, New Zealand, to support teaching, learning, curriculum, assessment, and aromatawai improvements across schools, kura, and early learning services. This position is focused on helping schools that serve learners in Years 0 to 10, with an emphasis on bringing curriculum change to life in practical and meaningful ways.

In this role, you will work closely with leadership teams, teachers, and kaiako to guide the implementation of curriculum and assessment and aromatawai changes through a whole-school approach. The role calls for someone with strong experience in leading curriculum across an entire school, driving change, and applying expertise in one or more of the national curricula. A sound understanding of the science of learning, effective pedagogy, and assessment and aromatawai practice is essential.

You will be part of a regional Curriculum Advisory Service team that helps schools, kura, and early learning services strengthen knowledge-rich curriculum implementation, deliver tailored change aligned to local and national priorities, access quality support materials, and build pedagogical content knowledge through professional learning.

Salary and employment details

This is a permanent role. The salary range is NZD 100,296 to NZD 121,490 per year, plus KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be placed at a salary level that reflects their experience and skills.

What you will be doing

• Support schools, kura, and early learning services in implementing a knowledge-rich curriculum using effective practices that improve learner outcomes.
• Lead whole-school curriculum, assessment, and aromatawai change in line with local needs and national priorities, using focused and tailored support.
• Help teams access and apply high-quality curriculum and implementation resources.
• Support professional learning that strengthens pedagogical content knowledge.

What we are looking for

To succeed in this position, you should bring deep expertise in the science of learning and in the teaching approaches needed to successfully deliver a knowledge-rich curriculum. You will need a proven track record in whole-school curriculum planning and delivery, along with the ability to support professional change in education settings.

Strong curriculum design capability and practical knowledge of teaching and learning within the National Curriculum are essential. Experience showing improved outcomes for diverse communities will be considered an advantage. You should also have substantial pedagogical knowledge and be able to build the capability of others. Please specify your area of pedagogical expertise in your application.

The role also requires strong relationship-building skills, including the ability to partner effectively with others to drive change. You should be confident in facilitation, diplomacy, coaching, motivating, and supporting kaiako, teachers, and leaders to strengthen capability and implement change. Familiarity with te ao Māori, Te Reo Māori, and mātauranga Māori would be beneficial.

Additional requirements

• You must hold a current full New Zealand driver licence, as travel is required.
• You need to be willing to comply with the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About the organisation

Te Mahau is a frontline group that provides leadership and integrated services to the education sector and related communities. Its work includes learning support, education advice, and regulatory functions for kōhanga, schools, kura, and early learning services.

The group works closely with communities at regional and local levels and maintains strong connections with iwi and hapū. It also helps strengthen relationships with diverse communities, including Māori, Pacific peoples, disabled ākonga, learners with additional support needs, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and CV using the application process provided. Do not send applications by email. In your cover letter, share information about yourself, your values, your motivations, your strengths, any transferable skills, and the perspectives you would bring to the position.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, so early applications are encouraged. The closing date is midnight on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.

If you need help or adjustments so you can take part fully in the recruitment process, support can be arranged.

Contact

For further information, contact Melanie Hagan at melanie.hagan@education.govt.nz or 06 349 6326.

Important dates

Advertised on 4 May 2026.