_{16th April, 2026}

English Language Partners is a not-for-profit, education provider with NZQA category 1 status, that has been providing English language programmes and settlement support to adult migrants and people from refugee and asylum backgrounds throughout New Zealand for over 40 years. With 21 centres spanning from Whangarei to Invercargill, our dedicated team of 350 staff and 800 volunteers annually supports more than 8,000 learners. We are passionate about supporting former refugees and migrants participate successfully in all aspects of life in Aotearoa New Zealand and we are looking for your help to achieve this.

What's the job?

The Cultural and Language Assistant (CLA) works alongside an English Language teacher in the classroom, providing language support and cultural interpretation to learners.
In this role, you will:

• Support Arabic-speaking learners (primarily Syrian former refugees)
• Assist with explaining lesson content and instructions
• Help learners achieve their learning outcomes
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment

This is an enjoyable and rewarding role, ideal for someone with cultural sensitivity, empathy, a sense of humour, and a passion for supporting others in their settlement journey.

What's coming up?

• 20 hours per week, ESOL Literacy Classes, Monday to Thursday,  9am - 11.30am and 12 pm to 2.30 pm during Term times, starting as soon as possible
• Classes located in Timaru, South Canterbury
• $29.25 per hour rate, fixed term, part-time contract

 
 Is this you?

• Accurate and functional in English with a good standard of literacy.
• Candidate will also be fluent in Arabic
• Knowledgeable about refugee resettlement and refugee issues and respect for different ethnic communities.
• An interest in and a willingness to adapt to New Zealand teaching methods, (previous experience as a teaching assistant or translator is desirable but not essential).
• A clear and friendly communication style with a strong cultural sensitivity, empathy and the ability to work as part of a tight-knit team.

What we offer?  

ELPNZ is a friendly and inclusive workplace with a culture of continuous improvement. It is a place where your own potential will be nurtured as you work alongside a passionate and talented group of educators committed to helping former refugees and migrants learn English and effectively settle in New Zealand.  

Job Description

The position description for this role can be found at the link below. Please copy and paste it into your browser: 

https://www.englishlanguage.org.nz/JobDescriptionCulturalLanguageAssistant

To apply:   Click "Apply For Job" now! Applications close at 5pm on 30 April. We may begin scheduling interviews as applications come in.
Applicants for this position must be based in New Zealand and have the right to work in New Zealand, with NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

Apply For Job