About Ministry of Education
Graduate Policy Analyst Programme 2026
Introducing our Graduate Policy Programme
The Graduate Policy Programme offers the opportunity to join Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga |The Ministry of Education, and an 18-month development programme which will kick-start your career in policy.
As part of our Programme, you'll gain experience and skills that will support your career and make a difference for ākonga in Aotearoa.
Te Pou Kaupapahere | Policy provides high-quality education policy advice to support informed decisions by Ministers. We deliver whole-of-system, end-to-end policy that covers early learning, schooling, international education, and tertiary education including Māori medium, te reo Māori, Pacific and learning support. Our advice is based on te Tiriti o Waitangi and helping all ākonga succeed.
Every year we recruit a new cohort of Graduate Policy Analysts to join Te Pou Kaupapahere, our Policy community.
We are looking for applicants who are passionate about education, enjoy researching topical issues and can apply learnt skills across a wide range of different subject matters. We offer you a structured programme of training and development opportunities to fast-track your policy career. There is a dedicated team who support the graduate programme giving you the best opportunity to succeed and grow. You have the opportunity to transition into a Policy Advisor role within the Ministry on successful completion of the graduate programme. This role is based in Wellington – our vibrant capital, compact, full of culture, nestled between green hills and a sparkling harbour there is so much to be discovered!
If you can answer 'yes' to each of the following statements, we look forward to receiving your application:
I am a New Zealand or Australian Citizen, or
I hold New Zealand Permanent Residency or a Resident Visa, or a valid Work Visa (for Level 7 qualifications and above).
I have completed my studies within the last 2 years, or will have completed my studies by January 2026, and will hold a degree-equivalent level qualification.
I am available to start the Policy Graduate programme full-time in January 2026, and be based in Wellington.
Have a genuine interest in working in policy and making a difference to education.
Are creative and flexible and able to work effectively in a fast-paced ambiguous environment.
Have an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and how giving practical effect to it can support education success for Māori and Māori-Crown relationships.
Have questions? You’ll find more details in our FAQs – CLICK HERE
Location
Wellington – we welcome applications from candidates throughout the motu who would relocate to Wellington upon commencement in January 2026.
How to Apply
PRE-REGISTER Apply with your contact details to be alerted to more information about this opportunity. Send your name and email address to GovtPolicyWlg@beyond.co.nz Pre-register before 21st July. | Job Type: Permanent Location: Wellington Applications open: |
For more information about the role, please review the Job Description below: | Apply with your CV and this Application Form once applications are open: Application Form |
Your Contact Person at Beyond Recruitment
You are encouraged to get in touch with Kathy Claridge on kathy.claridge@beyond.co.nz or 0273551950 if you have any questions throughout this process.
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Quotes from 2025 Grads:
What did this opportunity mean to you?
This opportunity meant getting my start in an agency I was hoping to get into much further down my career path. (Nikhil – 2025 Policy Graduate Programme)
What surprised you the most?
What surprised me the most is the level of support I’ve received from a wide range of staff and how close-knit the policy group - Te Pou Kaupapahere is within the Ministry. I’ve also been pleasantly surprised by how much graduates are truly valued here and how easy it has been to build meaningful connections with people across different teams. From day one, I’ve felt welcomed, supported and encouraged to contribute, which has made a real difference in my confidence as a new graduate. (Shari – 2025 Policy Graduate Programme)
What has been your biggest learning so far?
Working in the policy space requires a different way of thinking to what I was used too. Things can move both quickly and slowly, and as you are part of a team collaboration is essential—especially as a graduate, as we are constantly learning! I have learnt that all knowledge is valuable. Everyone brings a unique perspective and knowledge base to the table which is supported, celebrated, and welcomed – and that is really cool! (Amma – 2025 Policy Graduate Programme)
Did you relocate to Wellington and how hard was that?
Yes, I relocated from Tāmaki Makaurau away from all my family and friends which was honestly one of the hardest parts of accepting this job! I think starting fresh in a new city is difficult, particularly when you don’t have any existing family or friend ties here, but there is so much to be gained from pushing the bounds of what you’re comfortable with – and I have really loved making the city my own, meeting new people, and creating new memories. (Emma – 2025 Policy Graduate Programme)
