Primary school teachers play a key role in inspiring young people and instilling a love of learning. As a primary teacher, you’ll teach a wide range of subject areas, while sharing your passion for specialised subjects such as sport, sciences, the arts and culture. This practical programme, taught by experts in primary education, will qualify you to become a provisionally-certificated teacher in primary and intermediate schools (Year 1 to Year 8, typically children aged 5–13). You will develop the tools you need to prepare you for 21st century classrooms where digital learning is key. Building strong relationships is vital, and diversity is welcomed. You will learn basic proficiency in te reo Maori and become familiar with the New Zealand curriculum.

Through placements at primary and intermediate schools, you will establish connections and develop practical skills. You will have the opportunity to apply to complete a practicum in a specialist school. Shaped by a commitment to fairness and social justice, the programme is underpinned by principles in the Treaty of Waitangi and a determination to ensure equitable learning outcomes for our young people. You'll gain an internationally-recognised degree from the only New Zealand University to rank in the top 50 in the world for Education as a subject. You'll form important relationships with teachers and prospective employers to secure work. You'll also earn a higher starting salary than teachers with employment-based qualifications. 

Students will complete 150 points in this one-year programme through a combination of taught courses on campus, online learning and practical placements in primary schools. Where could this programme take you?: While many graduates go on to teach in primary schools in New Zealand or overseas, the programme will also provide you with a range of transferable skills that can be applied to a range of careers. By already holding a bachelors degree you will be eligible to start on a higher step of the salary scale in services covered by the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) teaching collective agreement for primary school teachers. Jobs related to this programme: Curriculum developer, Hospital play specialist, Human resource adviser, Learning designer, Policy adviser for the Ministry of Education, Primary school teacher, Researcher Further study options: Master of Education, Master of Professional Studies in Education, Postgraduate Certificate in Social and Community Leadership, Postgraduate Diploma in Education, Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work, Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Theory.