Deputy Principal, Language and Culture – Ko Taku Reo | Deaf Education New Zealand

Location: National scope (base negotiable - Auckland/Christchurch)

Tenure: Full-time, permanent

Lead with mana. Strengthen identity, culture, and connection.

Ko Taku Reo | Deaf Education New Zealand is the national provider of education services for Deaf and hard of hearing learners. Rooted in whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, kotahitanga, and ako, we celebrate Deaf culture and promote bilingualism in NZSL, Te Reo Māori and English to ensure every learner can thrive through language, identity, and belonging.

We are seeking an inspirational leader to join our Executive Leadership Team as Deputy Principal, Language and Culture – a role that shapes the cultural and linguistic heart of Ko Taku Reo and strengthens partnerships across Aotearoa.

About the role | Te tūranga

The Deputy Principal, Language and Culture leads a broad portfolio including Language and Culture, Early Years, Residential and Immersion, and Engagement and Communication. This strategic role ensures that Deaf culture, bilingual practice, and inclusive values are woven through all aspects of education, community connection, and organisational strategy.

Reporting to the Executive Principal, you will lead a diverse and expert team dedicated to fostering strong community partnerships, enriching residential and early learning environments, and ensuring that every student’s cultural and linguistic identity is celebrated and supported.

Your leadership will champion:

• Cultural and linguistic excellence across NZSL, Te Reo Māori and English
• Authentic relationships with Deaf communities, whānau and education partners
• Quality, compliance, and care within residential and early years settings
• Strategic planning and engagement that strengthens connection and trust
• A culture of inclusivity, respect, and belonging across all environments

About you | Mōu ake

You are a relational and strategic leader with the vision to shape the future of Deaf education through culture, language, and engagement. You bring deep understanding of Deaf culture, NZSL, and bicultural practice, along with proven leadership in complex educational or community settings.

You will bring:

• Senior educational or organisational leadership experience, ideally in Deaf or specialist education
• Strength in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and team leadership
• Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and bicultural practice in Aotearoa Expertise in cultural responsiveness and bilingual education
• Proven ability to lead residential or early years settings (advantageous)
• Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to equity and inclusion

Why join us | He aha ai mātou?

At Ko Taku Reo, you will help shape a future where Deaf and hard of hearing learners thrive through culture, connection, and communication. Working across the national network, you’ll collaborate with passionate educators, community leaders, and whānau to bring the organisation’s vision to life.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead with purpose and make a tangible impact in Deaf education across Aotearoa.

Join us | Me tono mai

If you are an inclusive, visionary leader committed to strengthening language, culture, and engagement – we welcome your application. We may seek to interview prior to closing date so please apply early.

Applications close 5pm, Wednesday 10 December 2025.