Psychology Intern

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 students in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

We are offering up to 35 internships spread throughout the motu as fixed term positions, for the duration of the 2026 university year. We will match interns to a suitable office location across the three Takiwā | Regions.

The exact location will depend partly on your preferences and partly on supervision availability, which will ensure we offer the best experience and support to all our interns.

We encourage applicants to consider placements in the smaller towns as well as our main cities.

Click here to see a list of potential placement locations.  

The purpose of these positions is to provide psychology interns with opportunities to:

• Experience the scope of the work undertaken in Learning Support, and particularly the work of psychologists in education.

• Gather the experience and complete the formal qualification necessary for registration in the relevant psychologist scope of practice with the New Zealand Psychologist Board under the HPC Act.

Our psychology interns make a valuable contribution to the Learning Support practice community by bringing fresh theoretical and research knowledge, as well as experience in related practice fields.

You will play a role in our Learning Support teams and provide support to learners, whānau, other specialist staff, educators, school management and community groups to develop and nurture inclusive learning environments and systems changes.

Your work will reflect a strong functioning knowledge of He Pikorua practice framework. He Pikorua guides the practice of Resource Teachers Learning and Behaviour (RTLB) and Ministry practitioners when working with others (e.g., ākonga, whānau, kaiako, learning support coordinators, SENCo). The focus of He Pikorua is to position learning support as part of everyday teaching and learning in the lives of ākonga.

Salary: $56,628.00 per annum + 3% kiwi saver. 

For more details about the role, you can view the job description here.

Download instructions and reminders to assist with your application

About you | Mōhou ake

You will have a master's level tertiary qualification in Educational Psychology or equivalent, and have been accepted into one of the following Postgraduate Diploma programmes:

• Massey University: Post Graduate Diploma in Education and Developmental Psychology
• Victoria University of Wellington: Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Psychology Practice
• University of Canterbury’s: Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychology

You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have the ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Working under the close supervision of a registered psychologist to support your development, as you work towards fulfilling the registration requirements of a New Zealand Psychologist under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Mahau takiwā collectively provide leadership and integrated services to the education sector. Learning Support is a critical part of Te Mahau takiwā in the Ministry.

We ensure that children and young people with additional learning needs are supported to achieve their full potential through education. Our Learning Support specialists work closely with families, whānau, caregivers, schools and early childhood educators in English and Māori medium settings and other agencies to help maximise learning outcomes and promote social inclusion.

To learn more about Learning Support, our people, what we do, the roles we offer, frequently asked questions click here Learning Support – Careers in Education

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the ‘apply' button. In your cover letter we’d like to know about you, your values, or anything else you’d like to share. We’re keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

Applications close Midnight, Wednesday 24 September 2025.

Download instructions and reminders to assist with your application

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.