The New Zealand Curriculum | Te Mātaiaho

Mātairangi

The guiding kaupapa

Excellent and equitable outcomes, reflecting the Treaty of Waitangi | Te Tiriti o Waitangi, for every student through inclusive, knowledge-rich teaching and learning informed by the science of learning.

The main objective of schooling in New Zealand is to support every student to attain their highest possible educational achievement and grow a love of lifelong learning in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.

The whakapapa underpins the system and emphasises the important role schools and communities have in delivering the national curriculum in ways that are responsive to their students’ needs.

Mātaitipu

Growing a love of lifelong learning

The vision for students attaining their highest possible standard in educational achievement, providing for positive life outcomes.

Mātainuku

Strong foundations for all students

Making sure all students are developing the capabilities, literacy and maths that are essential to support lifelong learning.

Mātaiaho

Learning areas and subjects

The sequence of disciplinary knowledge and practices to be taught to all students during Years 0–10 (learning areas) and within subjects as they begin to specialise from Year 11.

Mātaioho

School teaching and learning programmes

Evidence-informed pedagogies and practices that enable all students to access and engage the curriculum and progress in their learning.

Mātairea

A focus on progress

Effective assessment practices for noticing and responding to student progress and achievement so that learning is not left to chance, progress is celebrated, and individual needs are met.

Mātaiahikā

Relationships for learning

Forming strong relationships with students, parents and whānau to enable supportive, inclusive learning environments that recognise individual interests, backgrounds, progress and achievement.