Ministry of Education

Ministry of Education – Graduate Policy Analyst Programme 2027

Help shape the future of education.

Applications have now closed.

View Ministry of Education Graduate Policy Program| View FAQs

About the Programme

The Graduate Policy Programme offers the opportunity to join Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga | Ministry of Education and complete an 18-month development programme designed to kick-start your policy career.

As part of the programme, you'll gain valuable experience, develop practical policy skills and contribute to work that supports better outcomes for ākonga across Aotearoa.

Te Pou Kaupapahere | Policy provides high-quality education policy advice to support informed decisions by Ministers across early learning, schooling, tertiary education, Māori medium education, te reo Māori, Pacific education and learning support.

Every year we recruit a new cohort of Graduate Policy Analysts who are passionate about education, enjoy researching complex issues and want to make a meaningful contribution to New Zealand's education system.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage applications from people who:

Are New Zealand or Australian citizens, or hold New Zealand Permanent Residency, a Resident Visa or an eligible Work Visa.
Have completed their studies within the last two years, or will complete them before January 2027.
Have a genuine interest in policy and making a difference in education.
Enjoy researching complex issues and working in a fast-paced environment.
Have an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its importance in supporting education outcomes for Māori.
Are available to relocate to Wellington and commence full-time in January 2027.

Recruitment Timeline

20th Jul
📝 Applications Open

2nd Aug
📅 Applications Close

Late Aug
✍️ Written Exercise

Late Aug / Early Sep
💬 Beyond Recruitment Interviews

September
🤝 Ministry Panel Interviews & Offers

January 2027
🎓 Programme Begins

How to Apply

Applications have now closed.

Resources:

• FAQs

Learn More

Want to hear directly from current graduates and learn more about the programme?

Visit the Ministry of Education Graduate Programmepage to explore graduate stories, a day-in-the-life video and additional information about working at the Ministry.