Psychologist, Intensive Wraparound Service

Help shape the future of education in New Zealand

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes.

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

• Permanent, full-time
• Based in either Gisborne/Tairāwhiti or Hawke's Bay
• Fleet vehicle supplied for regional travel requirements.

As a Te Kahu Tōī Psychologist, you'll join a passionate, multidisciplinary team dedicated to creating change for ākonga with the highest and most complex needs – often those for whom traditional supports have not been enough. These young people may be disengaged from education, isolated from peers, and struggling in both home and community settings. The challenges are big, but the impact you'll have is even bigger.

Through Te Kahu Tōī, our Intensive Wraparound Service (IWS), we walk alongside some of the most vulnerable and high-needs tamariki and their whānau – those navigating a complex mix of behavioural, emotional, social, and learning challenges. This is not your average psychologist role. You won't just be assessing or observing – you'll be transforming lives.

Salary range: $85,416-$126,000 per annum + 3% KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

This role provides Intensive Wraparound Services for the Gisborne/Tairāwhiti region. However, candidates can be based in the Hawke's Bay area as travel to Gisborne is only required every 4-6 weeks.

We're looking for psychologists with a heart for justice, and a commitment to walking alongside tamariki and whānau through complexity, crisis, and change.

You'll thrive in this role if you:

• are a New Zealand Registered Psychologist with a current practicing certificate (current interns are also welcome to apply)
• are passionate about working holistically and intensively with tamariki and whānau experiencing high levels of need and challenge
• bring deep empathy, clinical curiosity, cultural responsiveness, and a solutions-focused mindset
• are confident working across education, health, and social sectors, and can lead collaborative, transdisciplinary responses
• are committed to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and honouring tangata whenua
• have a full, clean driver's licence, clear police checks and a right to work in New Zealand.
• The ability and willingness to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct.

Te Kahu Tōī, the Intensive Wraparound Service, is a national, specialist service that delivers intensive supports across domains to ākonga aged 5-14 with the highest level of need. These are tamariki with significant and often multiple challenges – emotional, behavioural, developmental – who need more than a one-size-fits-all response. This role is your opportunity to make a profound difference where it matters most – for tamariki who are at risk of being left behind, and for whānau who need hope, support, and partnership.

Our team members say:

• "The work is hard – but the gains, even the small ones, are life-changing."
• "I value the strong professional support. It keeps me grounded and connected."
• "This is the first time I've truly seen systems change because of my input."

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?

If this opportunity interests you, please submit your cover letter and resume by using the 'apply' button (please do not email your application). In your cover letter we'd like to know about you, your values, or anything else you'd like to share. We're keen to understand your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Liana Gibson, Service Manager/Psychologist for Te Kahu Tōī | Intensive Wraparound Service at 027 289 3894 and/or email liana.gibson@education.govt.nz.

Applications close Midnight – Monday 5th May 2025.

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.