Junior Teacher

Awapuni School (P North); Manawatū-Whanganui; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Awapuni School (P North) in Palmerston North is seeking a Junior School Teacher (New Entrants) on a fixed-term basis through to the end of 2026. This role covers Years 1–8 in a developing, supportive environment.

The successful candidate will contribute to a structured, collaborative classroom culture, with an emphasis on play-based learning and culturally responsive teaching. Immediate start for roll growth through Term 4, 2026.

Qualifications

• Proven behaviour management and routines creating a safe classroom culture.
• Cultural competence and engagement within a diverse school community.
• Collaborative team player with supportive teaching syndicate.
• Interest in or experience with play-based learning frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging lessons across Years 1–8.
• Implement play-based learning and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to plan and assess.

Skills

Behaviour management

Team collaboration

Play-based learning

Flexible pedagogy

Education

Certificated teacher

Job description

Awapuni School (P North) Manawatu/Whanganui

Junior Teacher

Full time, Fixed term, Start Date: 21/09/2026, End Date: 16/12/2026 (Roll Growth)

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

Are you a collaborative, energetic educator with a knack for creating a structured, supportive environment where young learners thrive? Awapuni School is looking for a passionate Junior School Teacher to join our team for a fixed-term position, effective immediately through to the end of Term 4, 2026, due to exciting roll growth.

We are seeking a dedicated teacher to join our vibrant junior department. Experience in play-based learning is a definite advantage, though not essential. Above all, we want someone who understands the developmental needs of our youngest students and brings enthusiasm and structure to their classroom every day.

We are looking for

• Proven behaviour management and routines: clear, warm, and consistent routines that build a safe, predictable, and positive classroom culture.
• Cultural competence: a genuine commitment to honoring diversity and engaging thoughtfully within our rich, multi-cultural school community.
• Strong team player: a collaborative mindset—you will be working closely alongside a dedicated, supportive teaching syndicate.
• Flexible pedagogical approach: An interest in or experience with play-based learning frameworks to spark curiosity and foundation skills.
• Position: Junior School Teacher (New Entrants)
• Tenure: Fixed-Term (Roll Growth)
• Duration: Immediate start through to the end of the 2026 school year
• Location: Palmerston North.

If you are ready to make a positive impact in a school community that values strong relationships, collaboration, and high expectations for all learners, we would love to hear from you.