Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary)

Summary

Share your passion for a subject and inspire generations of young learners by adding this one-year programme to your existing bachelors degree.

Programme overview

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 top 50 in the world for Education as a subject. 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.

Programme structure

Students will complete 150 points in this one-year programme through practical placements in secondary schools as well as taught courses on campus and online.

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).

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 full block weeks throughout the year. A three-day observation in February provides an opportunity to experience the start of a school year.

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.

Where could this programme take you?

While many graduates go on to teach in secondary schools in New Zealand, the programme will also provide you with transferable skills that can be applied to a range of careers.

Jobs related to this programme

Curriculum developer

Education consultant

Learning designer

Mental health education specialist

Policy adviser for the Ministry of Education

Researcher

Secondary teacher

Further study options

Master of Education

Postgraduate Certificate in Social and Community Leadership

Postgraduate Diploma in Education

Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work

Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Theory