Classroom Teacher

Matawai School; Gisborne; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

School housing available

Professional development opportunities

Fixed-term leadership unit

Job summary

Matawai School in a rural gateway location near Gisborne is seeking a Certificated teacher for a full-time fixed-term maternity cover from 28 January 2027 to 17 December 2027. The role covers Years 1–8 in a supportive, close-knit community with modern learning spaces and local housing available for the successful applicant.

We offer small class sizes, strong tamariki/whānau engagement, professional development opportunities, and a chance to lead in an area aligned with your strengths within a

Qualifications

• Certified teaching qualification required.
• Experience in primary/elementary setting preferred.
• Ability to engage learners and build positive relationships.

Responsibilities

• Teach Primary/Intermediate (Years 1–8) in Matawai School.
• Collaborate with colleagues and whānau to support student learning.
• Plan and deliver engaging, inclusive lessons with strong classroom management.
• Contribute to professional development and school initiatives.

Skills

Classroom management

Planning

Relationships with tamariki/whānau

Education

Certificated teacher

Job description

Full time, Fixed term, Start Date: 28/01/2027, End Date: 17/12/2027 (Maternity Leave)

Primary and intermediate (Years 1–8) / kura tuatahi, Certificated teacher

English, Health and physical education, Learning languages, Mathematics and statistics, Science, Social sciences, Technology, Te reo Māori, The arts

Staffing incentive allowance & Isolation allowance (based on residence)

Nestled at the gateway to the Waioeka Gorge—across the road from a deer park and 70km inland from Gisborne—Matawai School offers a truly special place to teach and thrive. Surrounded by natural scenery, our vibrant rural school is the heart of a warm, tight-knit community. With highly engaged tamariki, modern learning spaces, and well‑resourced programs, this is an environment where you can build meaningful connections with your learners and make a lasting difference.

If you are looking for a welcoming team, a strong community spirit, and an unmatched rural lifestyle, Matawai School is welcoming applications to join our team in 2027.

What we offer

• A supportive, close-knit, and collaborative school environment.
• Small class sizes with high levels of community and whānau support.
• School housing available for the successful applicant
• Opportunities to participate in professional development
• A fixed-term Management Unitis available for the successful applicant ready to lead in an area aligned with their strengths.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking a vibrant, relationship-focused educator who brings strong classroom management, purposeful planning, and a genuine sense of fun to rural school life. You’ll be a collaborative team player who builds authentic connections with tamariki, whānau, and colleagues, while remaining committed to professional growth and creating an engaging, supportive learning space for every child.

Teaching level can be negotiated with the successful applicant.

If you are excited about the prospect of living and teaching in a vibrant rural community with fantastic tamariki and a supportive team, we would love to hear from you.