Principal Advisor, Curriculum Design - Maths

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, Fulltime opportunity
• Wellington-based

 Are you ready to bring your leadership skills to shape the future of learning in Aotearoa? As Principal Adviser, Curriculum Design, you’ll play a pivotal role within the New Zealand Curriculum & Te Whāriki team in Te Poutāhū (Curriculum Centre). 

This is your opportunity to lead the development of substantial and complex national curriculum design that supports every learner’s progress and achievement. You’ll provide expert leadership and guidance on creating a knowledge-rich curriculum, underpinned by the science of learning, to make a lasting impact on education across the country.

Salary range: 119,171- 144,560 per annum + 3% 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

We are seeking a dynamic Principal Advisor who thrives on collaboration and leadership. You will bring people together, coach and mentor others and drive outcomes that make a real impact. Your ability to harness data and insights to spot trends, risks and opportunities will help shape organisational and system-level decisions. With exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, you’ll influence effectively while navigating complex political landscapes with confidence and discretion.

You’re someone who looks beyond the obvious, anticipates future consequences, and never settles for the first answer. A strong understanding of the machinery of government and the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi – and how these shape operational policy in the education sector – is essential. Above all, you’re committed to continuous personal and professional growth, ensuring you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving environment.

You will also offer:

• Expertise in evidence-based curriculum design and the science of learning to drive quality education outcomes.
• Proven ability to deliver high-level advice at a national scale.
• Skilled in applying evidence-based decision-making and intervention logic.
• Experienced in collaborative leadership to design solutions and achieve results.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

 Our team is collaborative, supportive, and passionate about making a real difference in the education sector. Joining us means you’ll be part of a group that values fresh thinking, evidence-based approaches, and continuous learning.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The purpose of Te Poutāhū is to lead the national curricula for Aotearoa New Zealand and associated systems and processes of assessment and aromatawai.

We design, develop and provide curriculum services for teachers, kaiako, leaders, ākonga, their whānau and communities that reflect their identities, languages and cultures. We bring together curriculum, teaching expertise and evidence for the development, support and review of inclusive curricula, assessment and NCEA. Our strengths are across te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, disability, inclusive learning support and culturally relevant content so that Te Mahau supports learning that is inclusive for all ākonga.

We support the people who are closest to, and directly serve, ākonga and whānau. We do this through Te Mahau where we connect with the sector, working collaboratively to identify priorities and design local solutions.

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 Denise Arnerich, Manager, Curriculum Design at denise.arnerich@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Monday, 2 February 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.