Lead Advisor, Learning Design

Role Overview

The Ministry of Education in New Zealand is seeking a Lead Advisor for Learning Design to join its team in Wellington. This fixed-term, full-time position lasts until June 30, 2028, and focuses on advancing educational excellence and equity across Aotearoa. The role is embedded within the New Zealand Curriculum & Te Whāriki group of Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of teaching and learning resources, collaborating with curriculum design teams and senior leadership.
• Provide authoritative advice, insights, and guidance on various curriculum initiatives, particularly integrating expertise in te ao Māori, te reo Māori, and mātauranga Māori.
• Understand and influence the evolving New Zealand Curriculum, emphasizing Māori perspectives in education.
• Engage with commercial resource developers and navigate government procurement processes for educational materials.
• Conceptualize and develop frameworks and standards that support curriculum design with highly effective resources and services.
• Collaborate across teams to develop evidence-based, innovative educational initiatives.
• Apply critical thinking to diverse information sources aiding leadership decision-making.
• Lead and coordinate development, research activities, change management, and program implementation ensuring quality learner outcomes.
• Mentor and coach colleagues to build organizational capability.
• Adapt flexibly to changing priorities and environments within the education sector.
• Commit to ongoing professional development and staying current with educational changes.

Candidate Profile

• Deep knowledge and proven experience in te ao Māori, te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, and curriculum, resource, and assessment design.
• Strong grasp of knowledge-rich curriculum and learning sciences to promote quality educational outcomes.
• Skilled in managing relationships with stakeholders within educational and government sectors.
• Excellent analytical abilities to lead complex analyses, business case development, and advisory work.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, including advanced ministerial writing skills.
• Robust industry knowledge enabling actionable insight and advice.
• Ability to oversee policies and processes, ensuring performance improvement and assessment.
• Commitment to uphold Public Service standards of integrity and conduct.

About Te Poutāhū | Curriculum Centre

The center leads the national curricula and related assessment systems for New Zealand. It develops inclusive curriculum services reflecting the identities, languages, and cultures of teachers, learners, families, and communities. The team integrates curriculum expertise and evidence to support educational development and review.

Additional Details

• This is a fixed-term position until June 30, 2028.
• The salary range is NZD 100,296 to 121,490 per annum plus KiwiSaver benefits, with final remuneration based on experience and skills.
• Applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter detailing values, motivations, strengths, and perspectives along with a resume.
• The application deadline is midnight, Sunday, 2 August 2026.
• Adjustments and support are available during recruitment for applicants requiring accommodations.