Kaiwhakatere|Teacher Aide - Communication/Education Support Worker
We are seeking a Communication/Education Support Worker (C/ESW) who is passionate about supporting our Rangatahi (youth) on their journey to independence and well-being.
The (C/ESW) role is key in the growth and development of a Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HoH) student’s learning through and of New Zealand Sign Language. Walking alongside our Rangatahi, you will build strong relationships that foster trust and rapport. By creating a safe and empowering environment.
Your duties will include, but are not limited to:
- Helping our rangatahi engage with their learning in the classroom and/or through personalised programmes.
- Providing physical interventions and personal care that aim to promote independence and well-being.
- Ensure that records are accurately documented and reported promptly.
- Work under the direction of the D/HoH students' classroom teacher and any other relevant stakeholders, guided by the classroom programme, the student's IEP, and NZSL assessment goals, where applicable.
- Actively participate in ongoing NZSL development provided by Ko Taku Reo specialist staff
The ideal applicant will be someone who has the following key capabilities:
- Understands and supports the Human Rights Commission report ‘A new era in the right to sign’ - Report of the New Zealand Sign Language Inquiry.
- Ability to effectively facilitate communication in a classroom setting and wider school setting using NZSL.
- Assist in liaising with teachers and other members of the D/HoH student’s support team
- Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the Deaf community and its culture.
- Communicate sensitively and effectively with D/HoH people and the diversity of needs in Aotearoa.
- High level written, oral and signed communication skills
Ideally, applicants will be learner-centred and excited about working in a collaborative, flexible, responsive learning environment. Has the ability to demonstrate empathy, be adaptable, and work well as part of a team.
Depending on qualifications, skills, and experience, this position is banded at Grade B/C of the Teacher Aide Work Matrix under the Support Staff in Schools' Collective Agreement. This is a fixed-term, term-time position of 22.35 hours per week, with working hours between 8.50 am and 3.10 pm, Monday to Friday concluding on 15 December 2026.
