Study to become a teacher
Here's how to begin your teaching career in Aotearoa New Zealand.
On this page
Begin your studies
To become a teacher in Aotearoa, you’ll need to complete an initial teacher education programme (ITE). These programmes are designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience to step confidently into a centre or classroom.
Through an ITE programme, you’ll learn about:
- how the relevant curriculum works and how to teach it
- how students learn and grow
- professional and cultural knowledge, including te ao Māori
- hands-on teaching experience through placements in centres, schools, and kura.
Find a programme
You will need to study an ITE programme that is approved by the Teaching Council for teacher registration. Approved ITE providers are fully accredited to offer these qualifications.
Use the ITE programme finder tool to:
- search by location, study options, delivery language, and entry requirements
- explore Māori and Pacific teaching pathways
- learn about financial support and scholarships.
You can see a list of approved ITE programmes on this webpage.
For more information such as entry criteria, study dates and applications, please contact the relevant ITE provider.
Or, head to the Education Workforce website for information about entry requirements, how to get financial support while training as a teacher, scholarships and studying while employed as a trainee teacher.
Your portal: My Rawa
Starting out as a teacher is exciting, and sometimes a little overwhelming - but you’re not alone. My Rawa is your go-to space for tailored support, practical tools, and guidance to help you feel confident and connected.
