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Religious Education Advisor for Catholic Schools

 Location:

Catholic Schools Education Services (CSES)

Reports To:

Vicar for Education / Director

Job Type:

Permanent/ 37.5 hours a week (Negotiable)

Permanent / 30 hours a week (Negotiable)

 

Religious Education Advisor

 About the role

The Catholic Archdiocese of Wellington seeks to appoint a Religious Education Advisor to Catholic Schools Education Services. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of Catholic education, supporting teachers and leaders and witnessing the positive impact of your work in schools and communities throughout the Archdiocese.

The successful candidate will join a collegial and inclusive team that values mutual support, celebrates achievements, and fosters genuine connections. The role provides exposure to professional networks and system leadership, with opportunities and pathways for career advancement. The appointee will benefit from a purposeful and mission-driven environment, where the work undertaken directly supports the spiritual, educational, and social wellbeing of learners.

Catholic Schools Education Services offers flexibility in working arrangements, with standard hours of 8.30 am to 4.30 pm, provisions for time in lieu, and flexibility for appointments. While the Archdiocese operates as an office-first organisation, there is scope for working from home on a case-by-case basis when requested.

This is a role for those who are committed to the values and mission of Catholic education, and who seek to make a meaningful contribution within a supportive and growth-oriented environment.

There are two positions available. Both are permanent, with one role offered at 37.5 hours per week and another at 30 hours per week. The two roles will work closely together, sharing responsibilities based on each person’s skills, expertise, and experience. There is some flexibility in hours for the preferred candidates.

About the Catholic Archdiocese of Wellington

The Catholic Archdiocese of Wellington serves communities throughout the Lower North Island and Upper South Island of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Guided by the Gospel and the leadership of the Archbishop, the Archdiocese is dedicated to nurturing the spiritual, educational, and wellbeing of its people. Catholic Schools Education Services works in partnership with school leaders and teachers to promote authentic Catholic leadership and education which supports the holistic development of learners. The team is characterised by strong relationships and shared values.

Key responsibilities

·         Provide professional development, curriculum support, and leadership mentoring to Director of Religious Studies and teachers.

·         Collaborate with school leadership teams to enhance the delivery and experience of religious education within their communities.

·         Facilitate workshops and formation sessions, supporting aspiring Directors of Religious Studies and deepening the expression of Catholic values in education.

·         Build and maintain effective relationships with Directors of Religious Studies at all Archdiocesan schools, offering tailored guidance and fostering networks of shared learning and support.

·         Contribute to external school evaluations, providing constructive feedback and supporting schools in responding to evaluation findings.

·         Represent diocesan perspectives in national forums and promote professional learning opportunities, including Te Kupenga courses.

·         Engage with the National Centre for Religious Studies (NCRS) and deliver key Religious Education papers to strengthen teacher capability when requested.

·         Support youth ministry initiatives in collaboration with the Young Church Ministry Coordinator and school leaders, fostering vibrant, faith-filled communities.

·         Pursue ongoing professional development and contribute to the continuous improvement of Catholic education within the Archdiocese.

Your Qualifications, Experience and Key Attributes

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

·         Experience in Catholic education, preferably across primary and/or secondary settings.

·         A relevant tertiary qualification and a current New Zealand Teachers Council Practising Certificate.

·         Sound knowledge of Catholic teaching and the New Zealand Religious Education Curriculum.

·         A deep commitment to inclusive, values-based Catholic education.

·         The ability to understand and respond with empathy to the needs of colleagues and school communities.

·         Proficiency in building strong relationships, mentoring others, and inspiring meaningful learning experiences.

·         Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, including accuracy in record keeping.

·         A collaborative and proactive approach, with a willingness to travel to schools across the Archdiocese.

·         Ambition and a career-driven mentality, with comfort in working without rigid structure and a willingness to explore innovative approaches.

·         A growth mindset, demonstrating openness to ongoing learning and flexibility.

Desirable attributes

·         Postgraduate study in Religious Studies, Theology, or Scripture.

·         Experience in adult education.

·         Confidence in utilising digital tools to support learning.

Why join Catholic Schools Education Services

·         Purposeful work: Contribute to the future of Catholic education by supporting teachers and leaders and witnessing the impact of your efforts in schools and communities.

·         Career growth: The role offers exposure to professional networks and system leadership.

·         Collegial environment: Join a small, inclusive team that values mutual support, celebrates achievements, and fosters genuine connections.

·         Flexibility: Standard hours are 8.30 am to 4.30 pm, with provisions for time in lieu, and flexibility for appointments. The Archdiocese operates as an office-first organisation, with flexibility for working from home on a case-by-case basis when requested.

Additional information

The Archdiocese values diverse perspectives and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Adjustments to the hiring process can be accommodated as needed.

Application process

Expressions of interest are invited from suitably qualified candidates. If you believe you possess the skills and experience outlined above, please submit your curriculum vitae and a cover letter detailing your interest in the role and your commitment to the mission of the Catholic Archdiocese of Wellington.

If you require further information or wish to discuss the role in confidence, please contact Catholic Schools Education Services on 04 496 1735 or 021 587 792.

Acknowledged by:

  

 Kelly Ross

Vicar for Education

 Date: 15 October 2025

Due to the dynamic nature of our work, the tasks and responsibilities noted in this job description may change from time to time.  Any ‘material’ changes will be mutually agreed between the parties and noted in writing.