Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary)

Secondary (high) school teachers are critical for developing knowledge and inspiring our young people, typically aged between 11 and 18, as they navigate and prepare for the future world of work. New Zealand secondary schools need more teachers to inspire a love for learning in our young people, especially those with expertise in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) subjects and te reo Maori. This one-year programme is the best teaching preparation for those with a bachelors degree and a passion for sharing their knowledge and talents. Whether you are adding a year to your existing degree or returning to study to change your career, this practical programme, taught by experts in secondary education, will qualify you to become a provisionally-certificated teacher in secondary schools. 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 will gain an internationally-recognised degree from the only New Zealand University to rank in the . You will also form important relationships with teachers and prospective employers to secure employment and start earning a higher starting salary sooner than employment-based qualifications. Graduate Diploma in Teaching students are eligible for the external TeachNZ Scholarships. . Before you begin your teaching journey, there are a few key steps you need to complete, so we recommend applying early. Read about the process on our . . The Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary) is available online in science, biology, chemistry, physics, social sciences, history, mathematics and statistics, english and te reo maori me ona tikanga subjects starting from 2022. The online enrolment will be limited to students with the ability to participate in practicum placements in Northland or within the Auckland Regional Boundary. For more information .

Students will complete 150 points in this one-year* programme through a combination of taught courses on campus, online learning and practical placements in secondary schools.

Students will learn about the New Zealand Curriculum and develop basic te reo Maori proficiency in addition to learning how to teach their subject speciality (for example: history, mathematics, English, dance, commerce, chemistry).

* Part-time study options are also available (with the approval of the Programme Leader).

Professional Experience

Professional Experience (also known as practicum) is a large component of this programme. Students will observe and work alongside secondary teachers in two different secondary schools for a total of 15 weeks throughout the year. A three-day observation in February provides an opportunity to experience the start of a school year.

• Observation: February
• Professional Experience in School A: March - May (8 weeks)
• Professional Experience in School B: July - September (7 weeks)

Careers Week

A dedicated Careers Week is a core component of the programme and provides students with the opportunity to develop their professional identity and have mock interviews with secondary school principals to prepare for the transition into a teaching career.

Capstone task and portfolio

At the end of the year, students present a portfolio, including a capstone task that consolidates theoretical and experiential learning throughout the year.