About Aotearoa Infinite Academy

Aotearoa Infinite Academy is New Zealand's first tuition-free online high school, pioneering accessible, world-class education for students in Years 9-13 across all of Aotearoa. We combine international (Pearson Edexcel pre-IGCSE and IGCSE) and national (NCEA Levels 2 and 3) curricula with a flexible, virtual learning model that prioritises wellbeing, belonging, and personalised support.

The Opportunity

Lead and inspire our Social Sciences department as Head of Department at New Zealand's first tuition-free online high school. Oversee the delivery of engaging Geography, History, Psychology, and Social Studies education through live virtual classrooms, delivering both international (Pearson Edexcel pre-IGCSE and IGCSE) and national (NCEA Levels 2 and 3) curricula. Provide strategic leadership to our social sciences teaching team while working fully remotely from anywhere in New Zealand, building positive, learning-focused relationships with students, families, and staff in a flexible learning model that prioritises wellbeing, belonging, and personalised support.

What You'll Do

• Lead the Social Sciences department with curriculum expertise, aligning with, and supporting the school's strategic vision
• Oversee and support the delivery of high-quality online social sciences lessons across all year levels
• Mentor and develop social sciences teachers within a collaborative, supportive team
• Design and implement innovative, inquiry-based social sciences programmes aligned to curriculum goals
• Monitor student progress and ensure quality teaching practices across the department
• Build strong partnerships with students, families, and the wider school community
• Drive continuous improvement in social sciences education through evidence-based practices
• Coordinate resources, assessments, and moderation processes for social sciences subjects

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• Full NZ Teaching Registration
• Social Sciences teaching qualification with expertise in Geography, History, and/or Social Studies
• Proven leadership experience in a curriculum or departmental leadership role
• Strong knowledge of New Zealand Curriculum and NCEA pathway (particularly Social Sciences standards)
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and team leadership skills
• Comfort with digital technology and online teaching platforms
• Ability to inspire and engage students across diverse year levels

Desirable:

• Experience in online or distance education
• Understanding of Project-Based Learning approaches
• Knowledge of current best practices in social sciences education

What We Offer

• Opportunity to be part of a pioneering educational initiative in Aotearoa
• Flexible, fully remote working arrangement from anywhere in New Zealand
• Supportive, high-calibre team of educators and leaders
• Chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students across the country
• Collaborative, innovative school culture focused on wellbeing and excellence

Our Commitment

At Aotearoa Infinite Academy, we believe every student deserves access to exceptional learning opportunities, regardless of their circumstances or location. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment where all learners can thrive. We welcome applications from candidates who share our vision and values.

Start Date: January 2026