[willsken]

A Head of Department job has come up in a school close to where we want to settle. I have the experience in the UK (Head of ICT/Business faculty) but I worry about not having NZ teaching experience. Does anyone think it would help to put in the application letter that I would be happy to work on a lower salary scale for the first year to gain experience? Also should I offer to fly out for an interview or not say anything about it? (and hope they will do it by phone) Any other tips to help get the job would be welcome. :nice1

[willsken]

Oh also is there anyone who could look at my CV and letter - and give an honest opinion? Thanks :D

[auskiwi]

Hi Nicola,
All teachers salaries (at public schools) are pre-determined by the teachers collective agreement. Im not sure if schools are legally bound to these numbers, or if they are able to have some flexibility. I suspect the union has made it difficult for schools to pay less than these amounts. For details of the agreements see here:

http://www.minedu.govt.nz/index.cfm?layout=index&indexid=1014

I am in a similar position as you although I'm looking for primary positions in Auckland / Northland areas. Not sure if I should offer to fly down for an interview or not either! I am experienced in applying for jobs in NZ though (was trained in NZ and taught there for 5 years before moving to the U.S), and would be happy to look at your CV and offer suggestions...

Best of luck! :nice1

Amy.

[Karen and Rich Matthews]

Hi guys, i applied for jobs but none of the schools were interested (also had experience of HOD position). After applying to about four and, in some cases not hearing anything, i joined an agency. It was only when i moved to NZ did a school show interest, invite me for an interview and give me a job. I think that (honestly) they do have a preference to people living in the country.

Hope this helps??? Please pm if you need a more detailed response!