Principal 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

• Full time, fixed term or secondment opportunity until December 2028.
• Opportunity to contribute the professional development services which help teachers and leaders build their capability.
• Based in Wellington.

The Principal Advisor Professional Development develops and implements functional strategies, priorities and work programmes to support the delivery of quality Professional Development services  that are aligned to the Ministry’s purpose and agreed strategies.

You will be responsible for supporting the manager and team to contribute to the delivery of curriculum and learning outcomes for all learners.

In this role you will:

• Lead the procurement design and delivery processes and systems of professional development services which help teachers and leaders build their capability.
• Develop frameworks and models that support improved service performance and ensure the sector is supported with the appropriate professional learning.  
• Provide support, coaching and direction to other advisors and support the manager to develop their capabilities.  
• Develop and source frameworks and methods in best practice in PD design, contract management and strategic provider relationships.  
• Apply innovation, investment and design frameworks and methods for the development of services, providing guidance on appropriate use to achieve the required outcomes.
• Contribute to evaluation which delivers quality information to underpin ongoing improvement to PD system.

Salary range: $119,171 - $144.560 per annum + 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 in this role you will have the following experience:

• Experience in developing and delivering quality Professional Development  services.  
• Experience the development, implementation and ongoing monitoring of functional systems, frameworks and processes. 
• Experience in building relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes. 
• Demonstrated ability to convey abstract and/or complex ideas in clear, practical and concrete terms, tailored for the audience.
• Experience in identifying risks and effective mitigation approaches.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

If you're a technical analyst looking for you next role to contribute to the analysis of business needs, system behaviour and data trends, we want to hear from you!

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

The Curriculum Centre Group provides expertise and partnership for the New Zealand Curriculum, Te Marautanga o Aotearoa and Te Whāriki.

The Group leads the national curricula for Aotearoa New Zealand and associated systems and processes of assessment and aromatawai.

The Group designs, develops and provides curriculum services for teachers, kaiako, leaders, ākonga, their whānau and communities that reflect their identities, languages and cultures, bringing 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.

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 Shaun , Manager, Professional Development and Services  at Shaun.Hawthorne@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Friday, 1 April 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.