Deputy Chief Executive, Curriculum | Flexible Office Location - New Zealand

Job Description

Ko wai mātou | About Us

Te Aho o Te Kura Pounamu (Te Kura) is New Zealand's state-funded distance education provider, supporting up to 30,000 learners from Early childhood, Primary through NCEA Level 3, including to young adult and adult learners. Te Kura plays a vital role for ākonga who have not always found success in mainstream education, offering flexible, personalised learning that meets them where they are.

Our work is grounded in relationships, innovation, and a belief in the potential of every ākonga. With kaimahi located throughout Aotearoa—three-quarters of whom are teachers we work together to help ākonga achieve their educational and personal goals.

Keeping ākonga are at the heart of everything we do. We live by our commitment to ākonga, ki te tī, ki te tā, ki te katoa – Anytime, anywhere, anyone.

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this position

As the Deputy Chief Executive – Curriculum, you will lead the Curriculum Wāhanga and the direction of a future-focused curriculum that is relevant, inclusive and responsive to the diverse realities of our learners. This role carries responsibility for curriculum leadership across all learning pathways at Te Kura — from early childhood through to primary and secondary. You will champion innovative learning approaches, strengthen culturally grounded practice and ensure ākonga remain firmly at the centre of all decisions. As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, you will influence widely, navigate change with calm confidence and bring creativity, warmth and strategic focus to this complex and evolving environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and direction of an innovative, ākonga-centred curriculum
• Strengthen culturally sustaining practice and bilingual capability across the kura
• Influence and collaborate across Te Kura, government agencies and the wider education sector
• Provide steady leadership through change, ensuring clarity, care and strategic focus
• Build trusted relationships with iwi, hapū, whānau and partners that support learning pathways

Ko koe tēnei | About you

We are seeking an educational leader with deep curriculum expertise, sector credibility and a passion for improving outcomes for vulnerable and diverse learners. You will have the ability to collaborate across the education ecosystem, build trusted relationships and lead through influence rather than authority. Bilingual capability is a significant advantage, supporting authentic engagement with whānau and strengthening our commitment to te reo me ngā tikanga Māori. 

We are looking for someone who is:

• Committed to improving outcomes for vulnerable and diverse ākonga
• Skilled at building and maintaining trusted relationships
• Experienced in leading large-scale curriculum design and implementation
• Able to navigate complexity with confidence and care
• Bringing strong bicultural understanding, with bilingual capability an advantage

Ngā Uara o Te Kura | Our Values

• Manaaki — showing respect, generosity, and care
• Whanaungatanga — building relationships and belonging
• Tika — acting fairly and honestly
• Ākonga at the Centre — guiding every decision we make

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

We have partnered with Tribe, a trusted recruitment agency, to support the appointment process for this role. You are welcome to apply through Te Kura's careers website, or directly with Tribe using the link below:

Apply via Tribe:
https://www.tribegroup.com/find-a-job/job-listings/16749?utm_source=Canva

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and suitable candidates may be contacted before the closing date.

Hei whakautu | In return

Te Kura offers a supportive and collaborative environment where innovation is encouraged and relationships matter. You will be part of a leadership team committed to equity, partnership and continuous improvement, with genuine flexibility and opportunities to grow.

E hiahia ana koe ki te mōhio anō? | Like to find out more?

To find out more, please contact Russell Spratt on 029 446 3770 for a confidential kōrero.

Applications close 11.59pm on Friday, 12 December 2025