Starting Your Career
A career in teaching means having the chance to make a real difference in young peoples’ lives, actively participate in a learning community and help shape New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation.
Teaching is a rewarding profession where no two days are the same and your work makes a real difference. If you're thinking about teaching, this section is a great place to start.
Here you’ll find out about the initial steps towards becoming a registered teacher. All teachers in New Zealand schools, kura and state kindergartens must be registered with the Teaching Council and have a current practising certificate. This means completing an Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programme that is approved by the Teaching Council.
Check out our teacher journey graphic here.
Getting started
Thinking about teaching
Are you wondering if teaching is for you? You’re in the right place. Find out about the key attributes you need to have to be a teacher, and questions to ask potential teacher education providers.
Studying to be a teacher
There are a range of study options that can lead you to a teaching career. Find out about approved programmes before you commit to a study programme.
Beginning teaching
You made it! As you embark on your exciting new teaching career you need to familiarise yourself with the Code of Professional Responsibility and Standards for the Teaching Profession and the pathways to becoming a fully certificated and practising teacher.
Approved Initial Teacher Education programmes
All providers of teacher education programmes in New Zealand must meet specific requirements set out and managed by the Teaching Council.