Good News for Migrant Teachers

New Zealand has taken significant steps to address the shortage of teachers through various initiatives and funding boosts.

1. Budget Allocation: The New Zealand government has allocated nearly $53 million for teacher recruitment and training over the next four years. This funding is intended to place and train 1,500 new teachers, with around 400 new teachers added each year. This initiative includes a $20,000 package per placement for aspiring teachers, covering living expenses and tuition fees. Schools will also receive contributions towards the cost of training and mentoring these new teachers​ (The Spinoff)​​ (RNZ)​.
2. Salary Increases: There have been substantial improvements in teacher salaries. By December 2024, the top salary for secondary teachers will reach $100,000. Newly trained secondary teachers will see starting salaries increase significantly, providing a more attractive financial incentive for entering the profession. These salary increases are part of the government’s efforts to make teaching a more appealing career choice and to retain experienced teachers​ (Education in New Zealand)​.
3. Overseas Recruitment: To further address teacher shortages, the government has extended funding to support the relocation of 300 overseas teachers to New Zealand. Additionally, there are 425 overseas finders fee packages to assist schools with the costs of recruiting teachers from abroad​ (RNZ)​.

These measures reflect a comprehensive approach to not only recruit new teachers but also retain current ones, with a focus on improving working conditions and providing financial incentives. This is part of a broader strategy to ensure a sustainable and well-supported teaching workforce in New Zealand.

If you are a qualified teacher in your country and if you want to learn how to find work in New Zealand or Australia, just send your CV to me at tate@employmentforimmigraiton to me for a quick review. I will respond with helpful insights in about a day. – Tate