Secondary Science Teacher

Tapawera Area School; Tasman; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Tapawera Area School seeks an enthusiastic and adaptive science teacher for a fixed-term role in our high school area. You will teach chemistry and biology (Level 2/3) and may cover horticulture (Level 2/3) plus a Year 9/10 general science class in a small, supportive environment.

With small class sizes (14–18) and a collaborative staff, you’ll build strong relationships, differentiate for neurodiverse learners, and contribute to ongoing professional growth.

Qualifications

• Strong chemistry and biology knowledge across Level 2/3 subjects.
• Ability to differentiate and support neurodiverse learners.
• Collaborative planning with colleagues and whānau.

Responsibilities

• Teach science across senior classes (Chemistry/Biology Level 2/3).
• Possibly teach Horticulture Level 2/3 and Year 9/10 science.
• Build learning-focused relationships and inclusive classrooms.
• Collaborate with staff and adopt ongoing professional growth.
• Support a small, collaborative school community; consider job share.

Skills

Chemistry knowledge

Biology knowledge

Horticulture knowledge

Curriculum planning

Differentiation

Team collaboration

Education

NZ teaching certification

Secondary teaching qualification

Job description

Full time, Fixed term, Start Date: 28/01/2027, End Date: 14/12/2027 (School roll for 2028 not yet confirmed)

Area / composite (Years 1–15), Certificated teacher
Science

Tapawera Area School is seeking an enthusiastic and adaptive teacher for a fixed-term position in our high school area to teach a range of science subjects

We are a progressive, well-resourced area school with approximately 160 students, situated in the heart of Tapawera. Our highly collaborative staff are committed to creating innovative, inclusive and engaging learning environments. Due to our small class sizes (14 to 18 students) every learner is known, valued and supported to thrive.

The ability to teach a combination of small senior classes (4 to 6 students) in chemistry and biology at Level 2 and 3, potentially horticulture at Level 2 and 3 (14) and a combined Year 9 and 10 general science class (17) would be a huge advantage. This could be a job share position.

We are looking for a teacher who:

• builds strong, learning-focused relationships with students, whānau and colleagues
• works collaboratively and contributes positively to a supportive team culture
• responds effectively to diverse learning needs, including neurodiverse learners
• has sound curriculum knowledge, particularly in the science areas of chemistry and biology and possibly Horticulture. reflects on their practice and is committed to ongoing professional growth.

Our school offers excellent facilities, especially due to being an area school with additional specialist secondary resources.

We offer enormous resources in supporting our staff and students with a full‑time walking SENCo and a distance/flexible option for senior students who need any additional support.

A school house may potentially be available for the successful candidate.

The position starts on 28 January 2027.

Applications close at 5pm on Monday 19 October 2026.

An application pack and further information about our kura are available from the school. School visits are encouraged.

Please submit completed application form, current CV and 3 relevant referees to our principal Andy Ashworth, [e-mail] or phone [phone].