What to include in your application

Your application must include:

• a cover letter outlining particular factors that are appropriate to our assessment (as per the points listed below)
• your resume
• academic transcripts of your highest and most recent qualifications.
• a completed employer's support form
• any other letters of support (not mandatory)

We will use the following9 factors to assess your application and you will be scored on how well your application meets each of these 9 factors. So make sure your cover letter includes information about each of the following factors:

1. Your experience working with children and young people with ASD
2. Your experience and knowledge of the special education sector, including any professional learning you have undertaken in the area of special education
3. Your experience with and knowledge of The New Zealand Curriculum, Te Marautanga o Aotearoa or Te Whāriki
4. Demonstration of Treaty of Waitangi in reflection in your practice
5. Your experience working with Māori children and their whānau
6. Your commitment to working with children and young people with ASD across different culturesASD
7. Your commitment to sharing knowledge with colleagues and the wider community
8. Your knowledge of and background of working with families with different culturesin diverse cultures
9. Your ability to speak a language in addition to English that is commonly used by children who attend early childhood centres and schools in New Zealand
10. Your academic ability
11. Your ability to manage work and study demands, including the practicum course in your second year of study.

We will also consider:

• additional support from the community and/or colleagues outlining strengths and areas for development
• any special circumstances you feel are important for us to consider.

Our decision to grant or not grant an award is final, and we will not enter into any discussion about it.