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

Fixed term/Secondment role until 20 February 2026

This is a Wellington based role and the successful candidate will be required in the Wellington Office at least 3 days per week, more as required.

The Lead Adviser, Curriculum Design is part of the New Zealand Curriculum & Te Whāriki team within Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre. This role provides specialist subject matter expertise in national curriculum design.

This role supports the development of substantial and complex national curriculum design to support students’ progress and achievement. They provide leadership and guidance about knowledge rich curriculum underpinned by the Science of Learning.

Salary range: $99,496 - $120,690 per annum + 3% 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

We are looking for a Lead Adviser with the following capabilities:

Understanding of The New Zealand Curriculum, Te Marautanga o Aotearoa and Te Whāriki and approaches to curriculum, assessment development and design.
Knowledge of and leadership experience in using evidence baseof designing knowledge rich curriculum and the Science of Learning that supports quality education outcomesand leadership.
Stakeholder relationship management, including across education and government sectors. There are a number of cross government initiatives that exist in this space.
An ability to work flexibly across the work area and an ever-changing environment.
An understanding of curriculum integration.
An ability to Lead the design and development of change frameworks and manage change initiatives to support programme implementation and ensure quality outcomes for all learners.
Excellent analytical skills including ability to lead and support the development and delivery of complex analysis, business cases and advice.
Have excellent ministerial writing skills and strong verbal skills.

You will also offer:

Experience in a complex organisation.
Experience in leading with others to solve problems or complete tasks.
An ability to convey abstract and/or complex ideas in clear, practical, and concrete terms, tailored for the audience.
An understanding of the role of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in the education sector.
An understanding of the significance of identity, language and culture.
The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

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.

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 Veronica Harvey, Senior Advisor- Business Support at veronica.harvey@education.govt.nz

Applications close Midnight – Wednesday, 14 May 2025.

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.

Lead Advisor, Curriculum Design jobs

Lead Advisor, Curriculum Design - Wellington