About Us

Southern Health School (Te Kura Whaiora ki te Tonga) is a state special school supporting ākonga in Years 1–13 whose health needs temporarily prevent them from attending their regular school. Working in close partnership with whānau, schools of enrolment, and health professionals, we ensure learning continuity, nurture wellbeing, and support successful transitions back to school or onto future pathways.

About the Role

We are seeking a compassionate, adaptable, and reliable Kaiāwhina / Teacher Aide to join our Aoraki team in Timaru.

Working under the guidance of classroom teachers, you will support individual ākonga and small groups across a range of learning activities. You will play a vital role in keeping students engaged in their learning, building positive and trusting relationships, and providing emotional and learning support during periods of illness and recovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Learning Support: Assist with planned lessons, adapt resources to suit individual needs, and help maintain an organised learning environment.

• Wellbeing & Inclusion: Foster positive relationships, support emotional and health-related needs, promote an inclusive environment, and assist with personal care if required.

• Professional Practice: Work effectively as part of a collaborative team, maintain strict confidentiality, and share observations to track student progress.

What We Are Looking For

• Empathy & Patience: A student-centred approach with a calm, reassuring manner and an understanding of the challenges health needs bring to education.

• Strong Communication: Ability to build trust with ākonga, communicate effectively, and work seamlessly alongside teachers and colleagues.

• Adaptability & Initiative: Confidence working under teacher direction while being proactive, reliable, and responsive to changing student needs.

• Cultural Responsiveness: Commitment to upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi to create an inclusive and mana-enhancing environment for all ākonga and whānau.

• Experience supporting young people or familiarity with additional learning and health needs is advantageous but not essential.

Requirements

• Appointment is subject to a satisfactory Ministry of Education Police Vet and ongoing suitability checking.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people during periods of recovery, we would love to hear from you!

Please submit your CV and cover letter referencing Vacancy 2026/22 to bmgr@southernhealth.school.nz.

Vacancy closes 23 November 2026

Attachments

Kaiawhina/Teacher Aid Timaru Job Description- Nov 2027   PDF, 115.6 KB