Expression of Interest – Mandarin Language Assistant 2026

The Confucius Institute in Auckland is calling for Expressions of Interest to host an MLA for 2026. This is open to all schools in the wider Auckland area spanning from Northland to Waikato.

‘Free’ (excluding homestay cost contribution) to schools, the language assistant can bring Chinese language and culture into the classroom to provide opportunities for students, teachers and the wider community to learn and engage with a native speaker from China.

For more information about eligibility and expectations of the programme, please go to background information. Hit the ‘Apply Online‘ for Expression of Interest online form.

• Expression of Interest deadline: 5pm, Thursday, 18 September.
• Schools notified by 21 October.
• Online Workshop for ‘new’ schools intending to apply — learn more about policy and the details, Wednesday 20 August 2025. Registration here.
• Anticipated MLA arrival, end January/beginning February 2026.

Please pass this on to clusters/ colleagues who may be interested.

We look forward to your Expression of Interest.

Note: ALL interested schools (including Confucius and Chinese Classrooms) MUST submit an Expression of Interest, regardless if in a cluster or individually.