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

• Fulltime, permanent Psychologist position available
• Based in our Whanganui office
• Come and work as part of a trans-disciplinary team where a child's needs are complex

Looking for a career that offers both purpose and lifestyle? Join the Ministry of Education in Whanganui as an Educational Psychologist and become part of a team that supports positive outcomes for children and young people across the region.

Whanganui is one of New Zealand's hidden gems. With affordable housing, short commute times, outstanding schools, a thriving arts community, and the beautiful Whanganui River on your doorstep, it's a place where work-life balance is more than just a goal, it's a reality.

Here, you'll have the opportunity to do meaningful work alongside passionate colleagues while enjoying more time for the things that matter most. Whether you're relocating or looking for a fresh challenge, Whanganui offers a fantastic place to grow your career and enjoy an exceptional quality of life. Learn more about what makes Whanganui such a great place to live: discoverwhanganui.nz

As a Psychologist you will play a critical role in our region's Learning Support team by:

• Enhancing inclusive practices in early learning services, schools and other educational settings
• Providing professional support and guidance to early learning centres, schools, teachers and families and building the capacity of those who are best placed to support the learning of children and young people
• Providing appropriate specialist assessment and analysis for collaboratively planned, evidence informed interventions
• Working as part of a trans-disciplinary team where a child's needs are complex.
• There may also be opportunities for involvement in project work, as well as individual casework, targeted (group) work, and universal (systems level) work.
• Thinking outside the box' and collaboration with others is encouraged, to ensure positive outcomes for students.
• There may the opportunity to develop a specialist area of service delivery to best serve learners across the region.

Salary range: $85,916 - $126,500 per annum + KiwiSaver. 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

You will be a New Zealand Registered Psychologist under the Health Practitioners Competency Assurance Act and hold a current practicing certificate OR be registered as an Intern.

You will also have / be able to demonstrate:

• The ability to develop and interact effectively with people of other cultures focusing or relationship and recognising their identity, language and culture as a source of strength.
• To demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to work effectively with ākonga, whānau and Kaiako across a diverse range of settings.
• Ability to translate practitioner knowledge into practical information to upskill the adults around a child.
• Ability to co-ordinate service provision in a multi-agency, trans-disciplinary setting.
• A full current NZ driver's licence is essential. Travel across the district is a requirement of the role.
• You will have a master’s level tertiary qualification and a post-graduate Diploma in Educational Psychology or equivalent.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

At Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga, we work to provide services and support nationally, regionally and locally to the education sector, and in some cases, directly to ākonga and whanau. To better deliver on this, we are currently undergoing an organisational design change.a highly flexible work environment, great opportunities for progression, etc.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Mahau | Education Services is a frontline group that collectively provides leadership and integrated services to the sector and others.

Learning Support is a critical part of Te Mahau | Education Services in the Ministry. 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. (Please see the following link: Recruitment within 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.

For further information, please contact Jillian Watt, Service Manager at jillian.watt@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Sunday, 8 November 2026 

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.