Special Education Advisor

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

• Permanent | Full Time
• Learning Support, East Team, Palmerston North

As a Special Education Advisor you will play a critical role in our region’s Learning Support team by:

• Supporting parents and whānau, teachers and schools to meet the learning support needs of children and young people
• Developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with a range of professional partners, community and sector groups and support agencies to ensure that services are coordinated and effective
• Enhancing inclusive practices in early learning services, kohanga reo, kura, schools, and other educational settings
• Assessing, collaboratively planning, supporting, and monitoring the implementation of individual (or group) intervention plans.
• Working proactively with Māori tamariki, mokopuna and their whānau, hapū and iwi, educators and Learning Support colleagues to identify and eliminate barriers to access to learning support services for Māori students with learning support needs
• Working with and alongside adults to develop appropriate communications, consultation and co-operation to promote a well-learning lifestyle for tamariki and rangatahi Māori requiring additional quality supports across all education settings
• Addressing key outcomes for whānau in key planning meetings with educators, Ministry specialist staff and agencies
• Working effectively as part of a team.

Salary range: $69,966- $118,450  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. 

About you | Mōhou ake

To be successful you will need:

• Relevant Diploma qualification, Bachelor of Education or Teaching, Post-graduate Diploma in Early Intervention / Special Education / Educational Psychology
• Experience working with children and young people with learning and behavioural needs in a classroom or other relevant setting
• Experience of supporting education and other professionals to meet the needs of children and young people with additional learning needs
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to work effectively with children, young people and their families and teachers across a diverse range of settings
• The ability to understand and apply the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and tangatawhenuatanga.
• Integrate Te Ao Māori and use subject matter knowledge and experience to strengthen cultural solutions for the learner and whānau.
• Have a level of competence in Te Reo Māori me ona tikanga and be able to link this expertise to work alongside colleagues and specialists in a bi-cultural way
• Ability to work effectively in Māori settings including the auraki education system and Māori education from kohanga reo, kura kaupapa, wharekura and whare wānanga
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Learning Support is a critical part of Te Mahau, Te Tai Whenua. We are charged with leading the education sector in ensuring 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.

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 Peggy Warren at peggy.warren@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Sunday, 27 April 2025.

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.