Principal Advisor, Secondary Transitions

Date advertised: 24 Jun 2026 Job Type: Permanent Location: Christchurch, NZ About this role This is a full‑time permanent position based in Christchurch. It offers a chance to make a real difference in young people's outcomes by ensuring better progression from schooling to further education, training and employment. The Principal Advisor Secondary Transition is a regionally based specialist who provides change and thought leadership to education sector leaders, assists them to support learners to move through NCEA and into employment with a focus on equitable outcomes. The role also supports implementation of Ka Hikitia and the Pacific Education Action Plan. Your work will span clusters of secondary schools, wharekura, tertiary providers, iwi and communities. You will develop new strategies to lift achievement and retention, assist providers to establish strong local partnerships with employers, support students' wellbeing, and deliver innovative solutions for disengaged students. A flexible and agile mindset is essential, as is experience in change management and data‑driven decision making. The regional work programme is regularly reviewed and updated to align with current priorities. Responsibilities Provide change and thought leadership to sector leaders to support progression from NCEA to employment, focusing on equitable outcomes. Support the implementation of Ka Hikitia and the Action Plan for Pacific Education. Collaborate with schools, tertiary providers, iwi, and communities to develop strategies that increase achievement and retention. Develop and maintain local partnerships with employers to equip young people for successful careers. Provide innovative solutions for disengaged or struggling students. Utilise data to support regional insights, planning and reporting. Qualifications Full driver’s licence; travel required. Ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct. Sufficient experience and knowledge in education leadership and professional change at school level. Ability to use data and knowledge for regional insights, planning and reporting. Salary range: $119,171 – $131,865 per annum + KiwiSaver. Salary reflects individual skills and experience. Applications close Midnight Friday 10 July 2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr