Specialist classroom teacher (SCT)
The Specialist Classroom Teacher (SCT) role was implemented in secondary schools across New Zealand in 2006. The role was implemented as a result of the PPTA Te Wehengarua collective agreement claim in 2004, and was seen as providing for professional support and learning in schools, as well as providing classroom teachers with an alternative career path.
All schools are entitled to employ one SCT for 4 hours per week, and larger schools (1201 students and over) are entitled to employ someone for 8 hours per week.
Documents
2026: Revisiting the role of the Specialist Classroom Teacher (SCT)
The original SCT role was meant to be an expanding career pathway. That did not eventuate, and the intended pathway was to a large degree replaced by the Kāhui Ako roles. With the disestablishment of those roles, the Annual Conference 2025 determined:
“That PPTA consider the value of an expansion of the Specialist Classroom Teacher model and inclusion of this into the PPTA long-term vision under vision area ‘Teachers are well supported in their roles.’”
The first step is to update the Guidelines for appointment and the SCT Handbook so we are establishing a Working Party.
Expression of Interest for a Working Party – APPLY by 4pm 18th March
Successful applicants onto the working party must be current members of PPTA Te Wehengarua and will meet the following criteria:
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A minimum of two years’ recent experience in the SCT role
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Familiarity with the SCT Handbook and SCT Guidelines
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Ability to attend online and face-to-face hui
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School supportive of time release
In addition, the following would be highly desirable:
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Active contribution to the SCT role within own cluster/region
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Consideration of the SCT pathways
- EOI Information Sheet
Apply via survey link: EOI Specialist Classroom Teacher Working Party
SCT Positions
PPTA would be keen to see more of these positions in secondary schools, but has so far been unsuccessful in persuading the Ministry to increase the numbers.
It is clear from the review of the pilot that SCTs significantly assist with the professional learning and development of individual teachers and with the development of schools as learning communities.
Review of the Specialist Classroom Teacher Pilot Full Report (2006)
Review of the Specialist Classroom Teacher Pilot Summary Report (2006)
Last modified on Wednesday, 11 March 2026 12:08