Reflect, rejuvenate and undertake professional learning with a paid sabbatical
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Last updated 4 June 2026
The Secondary Principals' Sabbatical gives you paid leave so you can reflect, rejuvenate and undertake professional learning. Each year, we offer 40 paid full-time equivalent sabbaticals to principals in state-integrated secondary schools.
There are 3 sabbatical types available:
A 10-week sabbatical, which may be taken in 2 blocks with school-board approval.
A 5-week sabbatical.
A 3-week sabbatical.
Blocks must be a minimum of 3 complete weeks.
You can also apply for a reimbursement of costs clearly associated with your sabbatical to a maximum of NZD$5,000.
Application period now open
You must have ESL access to apply. Your ESL account must be linked to your current school with “TeachNZ Study Awards” role. Contact your school’s ESL Delegated Authoriser or visit the Applications & Online Systems website for help.
Applications for the 2027 Secondary Principals' Sabbatical are open.
If you want to apply for a Secondary Principals' Sabbatical, you must:
be employed under the Secondary Principals’ Collective Agreement (SPCA) or applicable individual employment agreement (IEA)
have at least 5 years' service as a secondary or area principal in a state or state-integrated school at the time of taking the sabbatical
have the support of your school board or your employer, including any agreed costs
intend to continue in a role in the education workforce.
Purpose of your sabbatical
State the purpose of your sabbatical in terms of your professional learning, and describe the work planned for the period of the sabbatical.
Benefits of sabbatical
Outline the benefits of your sabbatical activities to yourself, your students, your school, and your community. Your proposal should specify the expected nature of the benefits of the sabbatical, including the impact on students’ learning outcomes.
Costing schedule
Provide a detailed costing schedule for your proposal, if your school board is covering some or all costs associated with your sabbatical.
Reporting
Describe how you will share your sabbatical findings and who you will share them with.
You will have a 250-word limit to answer each question. You will also be asked to provide generic employment information.
Make sure to upload your supporting documents to the online application form or you will be unable to apply.
If you are unable to provide evidence to support your application before the closing date, please email teacher.studyawards@education.govt.nz to be considered for a late application.
Contact us
If you have any questions, we're here to help.
See our Contact us page for more information on how to get in touch.
