Social Worker in Schools, Invercargill
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Barnardos

Social Worker in Schools

  • Posted 1w ago
  • On Site
  • Full Time

Invercargill

Job Description

We are looking for a compassionate, child-focused social worker to join our Social Workers in Schools team, based in Invercargill. This exciting opportunity places you in multiple dynamic school environments where you’ll deliver early intervention and preventative social work services. Working closely with tamariki and their whānau, your goal will be to create opportunities for children to:

  • Feel safe, supported, and socially connected.
  • Develop a strong sense of identity and wellbeing.
  • Be actively engaged in school life.
  • Build meaningful connections with their whānau, hapū, iwi, and wider community.
  • Access the support they need with confidence.


Each day brings a variety of challenges, as you draw on your skills, knowledge, and networks to achieve the best outcomes for tamariki and their whānau. You’ll be part of a trauma-informed, experienced team dedicated to empowering families and transforming lives.


This permanent full-time role is 40 hours per week (Monday - Friday). The role is based in Invercargill and some travel across the region is required.


Key Responsibilities


  • Use a strengths-based approach to support tamariki and whānau through direct intervention and guidance.
  • Collaborate with families to assess the needs of tamariki and develop tailored action plans.
  • Deliver group programmes that complement individual work with children and families.
  • Help whānau build resilience, access resources, and maintain safe, positive environments for tamariki.
  • Work closely with multi-disciplinary teams and key stakeholders to deliver effective support.


About You


We’re looking for a dedicated and empathetic professional who brings:


  • A strong child protection lens and the ability to advocate for tamariki.
  • Exceptional relationship-building skills with tamariki, whānau, and stakeholders.
  • Cultural competence in Māori, Pacific, and new immigrant communities.
  • A recognised social work qualification and SWRB registration.
  • Experience working with tamariki and whānau.
  • Skills in child and parenting case assessments and interventions.
  • Knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and their application in practice.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • A full, unrestricted NZ Driver's Licence


Culture


This work can sometimes be challenging. You will need resilience and a passion for working with youth, be flexible, have a positive attitude, and exhibit the ability to build strong professional relationships with young people, whanau/families, staff, and service providers.  A comprehensive induction programme is undertaken with ongoing education, training, and support offered to all staff.


Embody Our Values


  • Kotahitanga (unity) : Cultivate a sense of belonging through meaningful relationships with tamariki, rangatahi, colleagues, and the wider community
  • Mahi tōtika (excellence) : Demonstrate unwavering integrity and purpose in all aspects of your work, striving for the highest standards of care
  • Kaikōkiritanga (innovation) : Drive positive change with creativity, constantly seeking new and effective ways to support tamariki and rangatahi
  • Āta whakarongo (active listening) : Let tamariki and rangatahi voices shape your approach, ensuring their perspectives are central to decision-making
  • Māiatanga (empowerment) : Nurture growth and unlock potential in tamariki, rangatahi, and colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development


Why Choose Barnardos?


  • Be at the forefront of trauma-responsive youth care in New Zealand, contributing to groundbreaking programs
  • Join a respected NGO with over 55 years of impact in child welfare and advocacy
  • Access ongoing professional development opportunities, including specialised training in trauma-informed practices and the latest youth care methodologies
  • SWRB fees covered, supporting your continued professional registration
  • Enjoy family-friendly policies, including flexible work arrangements where possible
  • Benefit from discounted childcare at Barnardos Early Learning centres
  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • Supportive team environment with regular supervision and peer support
  • Opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable young people


About Barnardos Aotearoa


Barnardos Aotearoa is a children’s charity working with tamariki and whānau to ensure every child in Aotearoa has the opportunity to thrive, no matter their circumstances. Our unique combination of social services, early learning, care services and counselling helpline provides the broadest range of child and whānau-centred services in Aotearoa.


Each year, we work with more than 30,000 tamariki, rangatahi and whānau across the country.


If you would like a copy of the position description please email recruitment@barnardos.org.nz


Every day, we’re making a positive, long-lasting difference to children's lives.

Ready to create positive ripples? Apply now and let's transform young lives together!


We will commence interviews as applications are received.

Desired Hard Skills

  • Child and parenting case assessments
  • Communication
  • Cultural competence
  • Intervention
  • Teamwork

Desired Soft Skills

  • Empathy
  • Flexibility
  • Positive attitude
  • Relationship-building
  • Resilience

Benefits & Perks

Culture

  • 🏛 Fully Paid Jury Service
  • 🏘 Work from Home
  • 🧕 Inclusive Workspace
  • ❤ Care and Appreciation
  • 👶 Childcare Support
  • 🩺 Health Insurance
  • ⚖ Work-Life Balance Support
  • 💚 Counselling Services
  • 📈 Professional Development
  • 🛂 Visa Sponsorship
  • 🚗 Company Car
  • 🏎 Competitive Salary
  • 🎉 Employee Discounts and Rewards
  • 🎖 Long Service Rewards
  • 🔥 Company Discounts
  • ⛽ Vehicle/Fuel Card
  • 💻 Company Supplied Technology
  • ⛑ Uniform Provided
  • ⏰ Flexible Work
View All
  • 🧠 Neurodiverse
  • 🚻 Unisex Bathrooms
  • 🗣 Support Services for Employees
  • 💝 Charitable
  • 🤝 Unionisation
  • 🙌 Community Focused
  • 👪 Family Friendly
  • 🌐 INZ Accredited Employer
View All

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