Program Overview

Secondary Teaching Program

The Secondary Teaching program is a rewarding career path that allows individuals to inspire learners on the edge of adulthood with their passion for a subject area. To become a secondary teacher, one must already hold a bachelor's degree in a subject appropriate for the New Zealand secondary school curriculum learning areas.

Program Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary) is a one-year program that qualifies individuals to teach secondary students from Year 9-13. The program covers core practices required for effective classroom teaching, includes extensive time in schools, and incorporates 'blended learning' to support the development of digital literacy.

Sector Outlook

According to CareersNZ, the secondary sector is projected to grow, creating new demand for teachers over the coming years. Employment prospects are strongest for schools with staffing difficulties, such as rural or low decile schools. There is consistent demand for teachers in core subjects like English and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths), as well as for te reo Mori speakers and teachers.

Job Options

Secondary teaching graduates can build successful careers in various teaching roles, including:

• Secondary school teacher
• Private education provider teacher
• Instructing trainee teachers at tertiary level They can also pursue careers outside of teaching, such as:
  • Secondary school principal
  • Department head
  • Curriculum developer
  • Education consultant
  • Learning designer
  • Mental health education specialist
  • Researcher
  • Policy adviser

Salary Benefits

Secondary teacher salaries have good growth potential, with base salaries increasing significantly as teachers gain more experience and take on additional responsibilities. Teachers working in schools deemed difficult to staff may also be eligible for extra salary entitlements under the Government's Voluntary Bonding Scheme.