Job Type: Fixed Term

Location:Christchurch, NZ

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 ākonga in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

This is a 12-month fixed term full-time role based in our Christchurch Office to cover parental leave.

We are looking for a Psychologist to be part of a close-knit, community-focused team that maximises learning and promotes social inclusion for children and young people with learning support needs.

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

• identifying patterns or contributing factors that may be influencing learning, wellbeing and behaviour
• enhancing inclusive practices in early learning services, schools and other educational settings
• providing professional support and guidance to 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 in-depth 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.

Salary range: $85,416.00 - 126,000.00 per annum + 3% Kiwi Saver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

We also offer:

• Flexible working arrangements where everyone feels valued & supported.
• The ability to purchase extra days leave.
• A range of employee network groups.
• An inclusive environment that encourages your personal cultural competency journey.
• Development and learning, including mentorship programmes and internal secondments.
• Wellness initiatives to support your overall health and wellbeing.

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. You will have a master’s level tertiary qualification and a post-graduate Diploma in Educational Psychology or equivalent.

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.
• 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, and co-ordinate service provision in a multi-agency, trans-disciplinary setting.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Mahau takiwā collectively provide leadership and integrated services to the education sector. Learning Support is a critical part of the Te Mahau | Te Tai Runga (South) Group in the Ministry.

We ensure 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.

Our specialists tell us they value:

• “The ability to make a positive difference in the lives of children, young people and their whānau and contribute to system wide change is a huge plus”.
• “The Ministry offers a strong community of practice and the support of a large organisation, so I never feel isolated or alone”.
• “I really value the ability to work closely with specialists from other disciplines. It enhances my own practice and thinking”.

To learn more about Learning Support, the roles we offer, frequently asked questions, and more, click here.

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 Paul Habinshuti, Service Manager at Canterbury.recruitment@education.govt.nz.

Applications close Midnight – Sunday 08 September 2024

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.