Head of Learning Support/SENCO

New Plymouth Girls' High School; New Plymouth; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

New Plymouth Girls' High School is seeking an experienced and inspirational leader for our Learning Support Department to commence in 2027. The role focuses on staff leadership, including approximately 10 teacher aides, and supporting students with diverse learning needs within AFL and Waimarie units.

You will collaborate with the Head of Waimarie and specialist staff, drive inclusive teaching practices, and work with whānau and external agencies to raise student outcomes.

Qualifications

• Experience in SAC/SENCO or a similar role within a school environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead Learning Support Department staff, including approximately 10 teacher aides.
• Collaborate with AFL classroom team and Waimarie unit to support diverse learners.
• Liaise with the Head of Waimarie and specialist staff to coordinate learning support across settings.
• Drive inclusive teaching practices and improve student outcomes with whānau and external agencies.

Skills

Staff leadership

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

NZ teaching registration

Job description

NPGHS seek an experienced and inspirational leader for our Learning Support Department to commence in 2027. An opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of students with diverse learning needs. The department supports a broad range of students with learning needs, from those who require in‑class support, to those who are not always able to work in a mainstream setting, to those learning English as an additional language.

The role has limited classroom teaching, allowing focus on the leadership of staff, including approximately 10 teacher aides. We want you to share your skills/expertise with those who work in the mainstream classroom, with small withdrawal groups, or in specific classrooms. Our Awhina Focused Learning (AFL) classroom supports students who are working significantly below their peers. The aim is for accelerated learning, leading to a return to mainstream lessons for some, while others are following a longer‑term ‘life skills’ programme. Our inclusive approach means that the programme for each student is individualised.

Waimaire, our very high needs unit, is part of our school and this role will liaise with the specialist teacher who is Head of Waimarie. Students sometimes attend a mixture of Waimarie and AFL learning, depending on needs and personal circumstances.

Applicants require a passion for improving student outcomes and will have experience in SAC/SENCO or a similar role within a school environment. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to build positive relationships with students, staff and whānau and external agencies are essential to this role.

Applicants must hold NZ teacher registration and be eligible to work in New Zealand.