Junior school kaiako

Riwaka School; Riwaka; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A primary school in New Zealand is looking for a passionate, creative teacher to join their Junior team. The ideal candidate will have experience in teaching Years 1–3 and demonstrate commitment to culturally-responsive pedagogy as well as collaboration with whānau. This full-time position starts at the beginning of term 1, 2026 and requires a certificated teacher.

Benefits

Supportive teaching and leadership team

Positive culture of collaboration

Enthusiastic learners

Qualifications

• Experience teaching in Y1–3 is preferred.
• Commitment to the North East and culturally-responsive pedagogy.
• Understanding of structured scope and sequences in teaching.

Responsibilities

• Teach across multiple subjects with a focus on culturally-responsive approaches.
• Collaborate with a team dedicated to supporting both students and teachers.
• Engage with the community and promote the school’s vision.

Skills

Culturally-responsive pedagogy

Partnership with whānau

Experience in teaching Y1–3

Science of learning

Education

Certificated teacher

Job description

Overview

Full time, Fixed term, Start Date: 28/01/2026, End Date: 15/12/2026 (Long-term 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

About the role

Riwaka School seeks a passionate, creative kaiako to join our Junior, Te Puna, team. If you thrive when part of a supportive team, have strengths across the curriculum and teach using culturally-responsive relational pedagogy, we would like to hear from you!

We are looking for a teacher who

• Has experience teaching in Y1–3 and flourishes when working in partnership with whānau
• Is committed to teaching to the North East and culturally-responsive pedagogy
• Understands the science of learning, experience in teaching using structured scope and sequences is advantageous (BSLA and Maths No Problem)
• Will show commitment to our schools’ vision 'Connected to Community, Nurtured to Grow, Empowered to Flourish' and AWHI attributes.

We offer

• A supportive teaching and leadership team who are committed to best outcomes for tamariki and kaiako
• A positive culture of visible learning, professional growth and collaboration
• Enthusiastic, creative and curious learners who are keen to learn.

The position begins term 1, 2026.

How to apply

Please contact the school office for an application pack.

Postal Address: 20 School Road RD 3, Motueka, 7198