Senior Education Adviser, Early Learning

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 this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

As the Senior Education Adviser Early Learning, you will follow Ministry processes to

• Assess regulatory framework when licensing new services and change of management.
• Conduct licensing assessment as a part of complaint or incident investigation to identify any non-compliance, gather evidence and make recommendations.
• Provide certification and advice for playgroups.
• It is essential that applicants have experience in Te Kōhanga reo, are fluent in te reo Māori and communicate regulatory requirements effectively in order to complete regulatory licensing appropriately.

This role requires travel across the Waikato district where work is required, our home office is situated in Hamilton City. It is essential that applicants have had experience in Te Kōhanga reo, are fluent in te reo Māori and communicate regulatory requirements effectively. Preference for applicants who have had leadership experience in early childhood settings.

Salary range: $84,425 - $102,271 per annum + 3% kiwi saver.  The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

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

We also offer:

• Flexible working arrangements where everyone feels valued & supported.
• The ability to purchase extra days leave.
• A range of employee network groups.
• An inclusive environment that encourages your personal cultural competency journey.
• Development and learning, including mentorship programmes and internal secondments.
• Wellness initiatives to support your overall health and wellbeing.

About you | Mōhou ake

To be successful in this role, you will need to be able to:

• Build successful relationships with members of the wider Te Kōhanga Reo/early childhood education community as well as with schools and kura.
• Work with data and information to identify issues and come up with solutions to solve complex problems and make decisions.
• Lead and work with others to support and implement change initiatives.
• Utilise the regulatory framework with licensing matters effectively.
• Work collaboratively with Ministry colleagues within the regional teams and across the organisation to support quality assurance.

We are looking for people who have:

• Proven team leadership expertise to coach and constructively challenge others to learn and grow in a safe and encouraging environment. Preferably prior leadership experience in Early Childhood settings.
• Accomplished capabilities in developing and delivering workplans that align to organisational strategies and work programmes using data and insights to identify trends, risks and opportunities to influence and guide organisational and system level informed decision making.
• A track record of bringing people together and leading, coaching and mentoring others to achieve outcomes.
• A solution focused and problem-solving approach with strategic and creative thinking, and a focus on Māori potential, and supporting real and sustainable change.
• Demonstrated ability to understand linkages with initiatives within and outside their area of work.
• Knowledge and understanding of the New Zealand education system and relevant legislation.
• An understanding of working with iwi, Māori and Pacific communities.
• A tertiary qualification in Early Childhood Education is essential.
• A full and clean driver licence as travel is essential
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Mahau | Te Tai Whenua (Central) is a frontline group. Our frontline groups will collectively provide leadership and integrated services to the sector and others. This includes services such as learning support and education advice, and regulation functions for kōhanga, schools, kura and early learning services.

As a frontline group we develop and harness existing relationships with communities at the regional and local level, including deep relationships with iwi and hapū.

We also collectively strengthen relationships with our diverse communities who support Māori, Pacific peoples, disabled ākonga and/or ākonga with learning support needs, and ākonga from disadvantaged backgrounds.

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.

For further information, please contact Linda Collins at 07 8508880 and/or email Linda.Collins@education.govt.nz.

Applications close Midnight – Friday 29 November 2024.

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.