Learning Lead - Tauranga Museum

About the Role

This unique opportunity allows you to pioneer the educational experience for Tauranga’s new museum, currently being built in the central business district. The museum is part of Te Manawataki o te Papa, a vibrant civic precinct that houses the upgraded Tauranga Art Gallery, Baycourt performing arts theatre, and a new Library & Community hub. Set to open in July 2028, the Learning Lead role is a key early recruitment as the museum prepares for its grand opening.

As the Learning Lead, you will translate the museum's engaging stories, extensive collections, and exhibitions into enriching experiences aimed at sparking curiosity among tamariki, rangatahi, and tertiary students. You will have the autonomy to shape the museum's educational offerings by creating innovative programs, resources, and interactive activities utilizing the museum's permanent and temporary exhibitions, heritage collections, and designated learning areas.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee learning programs catering to early childhood through tertiary education audiences.
• Collaborate with curators, exhibition designers, and other museum departments to integrate educational elements into exhibitions from their conception.
• Lead and mentor the learning team to ensure high-quality program delivery.
• Foster strong partnerships with schools, early learning centers, educational organizations, cultural precinct collaborators, and community stakeholders.
• Develop captivating resources and hands-on experiences leveraging the museum’s interactive spaces and collections.
• Infuse the learning offer with innovative ideas and contemporary pedagogical approaches from the education and museum sectors.
• Support submissions and agreements for Enriching Local Curriculum initiatives.
• Manage program plans, budgets, resources, and oversee risk management for day-to-day operations.

Requirements

• Possess a recognized qualification in education or teaching.
• Bring a minimum of five years’ experience designing and implementing educational programs within museums, galleries, or related cultural institutions.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of New Zealand's education system and relevant curriculum frameworks.
• Understand diverse audience learning and engagement methods in cultural environments.
• Experience in leading, coaching, or supporting teams effectively.
• Exhibit excellent relationship-building abilities and collaborative work style across varied groups.
• Strong skills in planning, communication, facilitation, and organization.
• Interest in cultural and social history is essential.
• Respect and appreciation for te reo Māori, tikanga Māori, and mātauranga Māori.

Additional Information

This role demands a creative yet practical approach to education, blending imaginative program development with solid execution skills. The successful candidate should be passionate about connecting communities with the museum’s collections and stories to inspire memorable learning experiences. Tauranga City Council values diversity and inclusivity and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities.

Applicants must have the legal right to work and reside in New Zealand. The council does not engage recruitment agencies unsolicited and will not pay fees arising from such contacts.

Benefits include: Five weeks’ annual leave, flexible work hours, and opportunities for professional growth in a supportive organizational environment.

The application deadline is Sunday, 1st November. For any required adjustments during the recruitment process, applicants are encouraged to contact the Talent Acquisition team.

About Tauranga City Council

Tauranga City Council plays a vital role in shaping the city and serving its residents. It offers an environment that promotes collaboration, forward-thinking, and community engagement, providing meaningful work opportunities and supporting career development.