Thinking of Becoming a Teacher? Don’t Miss This Scholarship Window!

Do you know someone thinking of becoming a teacher? Or are you currently working under a Limited Authority to Teach (LAT) and want to get fully qualified?

Now is the time to act! Applications are open for the TeachNZ training scholarships for study in 2026, and there are some big changes (and big opportunities) this year—especially for those interested in Secondary Technology, Science, or Maths teaching.

$30,000 Career Changer Scholarships + Fees Paid

If you have at least 7 years of work experience in a field related to a school subject (like tech, engineering, construction, culinary, or other STEM-related areas), you may be eligible for a tax-free $30,000 per year scholarship plus full course fees.

This is an incredible opportunity for:

  • LATs currently teaching and wanting to get qualified
  • Career changers looking to start their journey into teaching
  • Industry professionals with hands-on experience wanting to work with young people

85 Career Changer Scholarships are available—25 are reserved specifically for Secondary Technology teachers, and another 25 for Science and Maths teachers. These are some of the most generous and targeted supports we’ve seen.

Applications are open from 1 August – 31 August 2025.

Don’t wait! You can apply even if you haven’t yet been accepted into a teaching programme. If you’re successful and can’t take it up, the award will go to the next highest-ranked applicant.

 Learn more and apply:  TeachNZ Career Changer Scholarships

No 7-Year Work History? There’s Still a Scholarship for You!

In a change from previous years, TeachNZ is offering additional scholarships now (instead of the usual January round). These offer $10,000 per year + course fees paid.

This round is also open 1–31 August 2025, and is perfect for those who don’t meet the 7-year work history requirement but are still serious about training to teach.

Study While You Work – Technology Teachers, Take Note!

If you’re a Technology LAT teacher with a Level 4 or higher industry qualification, there are now three one-year Graduate Diploma courses available across New Zealand that will qualify you to teach—and meet the $30,000 scholarship eligibility criteria.

These programmes are:

  • Often flexible and can be completed full-time or part-time
  • Include online learning and 80 days of in-school placements
  • Compatible with “employment while you train” setups—meaning you may teach part-time as a LAT and still earn up to $15,000 + fees pro rata while studying

Some Auckland-based EBITE (Employment-Based Initial Teacher Education) programmes are available for those with less than 7 years of work experience, but special conditions apply—reach out if you want advice.

 Can Your Work History Increase Your Teacher Salary? Yes!

Did you know your past experience can accelerate your pay as a teacher?

  • Level 4 qualifications: Every 3 years of related industry experience = 1 step up the pay scale
  • Level 5 and above: Every 2 years = 1 step
  • 2000+ hours + Level 5+ qualification = eligibility for G3+ salary step (conditions apply)

 Want Advice or Support?

Keen to apply, but not sure how to frame your experience? Want tips on the 3-minute video component?  Email: [email protected]
Phone: 027 689 5366  Kevin Meyer is happy to talk you through it and offer advice, don’t wait until the last minute.

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