Cultural Advisor - Deaf & Hard of Hearing (DHH)

ABOUT US / MŌ MĀTOU

Ko Taku Reo Deaf Education New Zealand is the national provider of education services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing ākonga across Aotearoa. We work alongside ākonga, whānau, schools and communities to ensure Deaf and Hard of Hearing learners thrive and achieve their full potential.

Our approach recognises that identity, language and culture are central to learning. We promote New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and work to ensure Deaf and Hard of Hearing learners experience environments where their language, identity and culture are valued and visible.

We are seeking a Cultural Advisor – Deaf & Hard of Hearing (DHH) to strengthen Deaf cultural capability across the organisation and support inclusive, culturally responsive education.

THE ROLE / TE MAHI

Reporting to the Deputy Principal – Culture and Language, this role provides cultural leadership to support inclusive learning environments for Deaf and Hard of Hearing ākonga to raise excellent educational outcomes.

You will help bridge cultural understanding between educators and the Deaf community, ensuring teaching practices, programmes and communication reflect Deaf culture and the use of NZSL.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting staff to build confidence and capability in Deaf cultural awareness and culturally responsive practice
• Championing the use of NZSL across the organisation
• Delivering training, workshops and resources to strengthen Deaf cultural competence
• Providing guidance to leaders and staff on Deaf culture, language and inclusive practice
• Supporting the development of resources and programmes that promote Deaf identity and engagement
• Advising on communications to ensure they reflect a strong Deaf lens and are accessible for Deaf and Hard of Hearing learners and communities
• Strengthening connections with the Deaf community and external stakeholders
• Sharing evidence-based research and best practice in Deaf education

This fulltime role includes national travel and offers flexible location options across Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch.

ABOUT YOU / MŌ KOE

You are passionate about Deaf culture, language and education, and bring lived experience and strong cultural insight to your work.

You will ideally bring:

• Fluency in NZSL
• Lived experience of Deafness and strong understanding of Deaf culture
• A tertiary qualification in education or a related field, or equivalent experience
• Experience working in the New Zealand education sector, ideally including special education
• The ability to support educators in developing culturally responsive teaching practices
• Strong communication, facilitation and relationship-building skills
• A full New Zealand driver’s licence and willingness to travel nationally

Most importantly, you bring authenticity, cultural leadership and a commitment to ensuring Deaf and Hard of Hearing ākonga are supported to succeed as confident members of the Deaf community.

HOW TO APPLY / ME PEHEA TE TONO

If you are passionate about strengthening Deaf culture in education and supporting better outcomes for Deaf and Hard of Hearing ākonga across Aotearoa, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role.

Applications close: 5pm, Monday 6 April 2026