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

As the largest employer of psychologists in education in Aotearoa New Zealand, the Ministry of Education invests in the development of this specialist workforce by providing placement and supervision opportunities for interns.

We are offering up to 35 Psychologist internships spread throughout the motu as fixed term positions, for the duration of the 2027 university year.

This position is based here in Henderson, Waitakere City.

Click here to see the list of available locations for 2027.

We encourage applicants to consider positions in the smaller towns.

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.

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

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, positioning Learning Support as part of everyday teaching and learning.

Salary: $57,500.00 per annum plus KiwiSaver.

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

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: Postgraduate Diploma in Child and Family Psychology
• University of Waikato:  Postgraduate Diploma in the Practice of 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.

You will also demonstrate the ability to work effectively and responsively with children and young people, their whānau and the people who support them across diverse cultural, linguistic, educational and community settings, particularly Māori and Pacific peoples.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Mahau │ Education Services is the key interface between Te Mahau | Ministry of Education and education providers. It is our role to ensure that sector leaders and the communities in which they operate have access to the expertise, programmes and resources that will allow our children and young people to reach their full potential.

Learning Support ensures 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.

Matters to address 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.

Please also provide your thoughts on the following, limiting your responses to 200 words per topic:

• You may already know the He Pikorua is the practice framework for psychologists in Learning Support with the Ministry of Education. What interests you about working in LS and using HP?
• Please outline your current understanding of what is essential in upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi in your practice.

Applications close: Midnight, Sunday 18 October 2026.

Please note: Interviews will be held circa Wednesday 21 October to Thursday 29 October 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.