You must apply to study the diploma at Massey University at the same time you apply to us for the award.

Check Massey University's application dates on their website.

Postgraduate Diploma in Specialist Teaching (Blind and Low Vision) – Massey University

What the award covers#

The study award covers:

• a contribution towards your travel and accommodation to attend block courses
• the full amount for your domestic tuition fees (paid to Massey University)
• an employer contribution to cover teacher release time for up to 50 study leave days per year.

If you are employed part-time, your study leave days will be based on your (pro-rata) full-time equivalent status.

Who can apply#

Teachers and kaiako who work with blind and low vision students | ākonga can apply. You must be employed full-time or part-time.

If you are in a fixed term position, this must be the same duration as the study programme.

You must be working in one of these roles:

• A registered teacher with a current practicing certificate at a state or state-integrated school.
• A registered teacher with a current practicing certificate in a registered early childhood service.
• Currently teaching blind or low vision students or have lived experience with children | tamariki with blind and low vision.

We will give priority to applicants who:

• are currently working as Resource Teacher (Vision)
• have not received a study award or fellowship for which leave with pay was granted within the last 2 years.

You will need:

• a minimum of 3 years teaching experience in schools as a registered teacher
• approval and support from your employer
• rights to live and work in New Zealand permanently
• a relevant professional qualification such as a Bachelor of Education or equivalent.

If you are unsure about whether you have an equivalent qualification, contact Massey University.

Contact us – Massey University

Who cannot apply#

You cannot get this award if you:

• are employed in a relieving position
• are not accepted into Massey University's Postgraduate Diploma in Specialist Teaching (Blind and Low Vision)
• have already received a study award and failed the course.

How to apply#

Apply by filling in this form.

2027 learning support study awards and scholarships

Blind and Low Vision Education Network New Zealand (BLENNZ) kaiako#

Your application should include details of your ability to succeed in the course of study and any other circumstances you think are important for us to consider.

You may also include any letters of support you think are helpful. This is not mandatory.

Non-BLENNZ kaiako#

Your application must include:

• a cover letter explaining why you are interested in applying for this study award and outlining your experience and motivation to support Blind and Low Vision students
• your CV
• academic transcripts of your highest and most recent qualifications showing courses completed and grades achieved
• a completed Blind and Low Vision Study Award questionnaire
• a completed employer support form.

Download the questionnaire and employer support form.