Education Minister Erica Stanford says she is putting "ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system".
She announced on Monday six education priorities for the Government to deliver a "world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success".
"These priorities are focused on lifting achievement and reflect the changes our Government has already made in education, including the requirement to teach one hour a day of reading, writing and maths in primary and intermediate school, and the ban of cellphone use in classrooms," Stanford said.
Provisional NCEA results released at the start of the year have indicated NCEA pass rates had dropped for the third consecutive year in 2023.
The Government has set a target to reach 80 percent of Year 8 students at or above the expected curriculum level for their age in reading, writing and maths by December 2030.
"Our declining achievement statistics clearly show that the school system is not delivering for all students. To turn this around, we need to make fundamental changes, including getting back to basics," Stanford said.
Government's six education priorities:
- Clearer curriculum: Establishing a knowledge-rich curriculum grounded in the science of learning
- Better approach to literacy and numeracy: Implementing evidence-based instruction in early literacy and mathematics
- Smarter assessment and reporting: Implementing consistent modes of monitoring student progress and achievement
- Improved teacher training: Developing the workforce of the future, including leadership development pathways
- Stronger learning support: Targeting effective learning support interventions for students with additional needs
- Greater use of data: Using data and evidence to drive consistent improvement in achievement
Stanford said she has met with several Māori education representatives and organisations to work collaboratively to develop a Māori education work programme. Initially, the focus will be on enhancing achievement, attendance, and engagement.
"For parents, these priorities will give them confidence their children are receiving quality education that will set them up for future success in further study or employment," she said.
"Ultimately this will result in an education system where all students are getting quality learning and skills to succeed no matter where they live, our teachers are supported with a detailed national curriculum parents are aware of their child's progress, and evidence-based supports and interventions are provided where they are needed."
Stanford said in the coming months she will be introducing work programmes in each of these key areas, the first of which will be announced later this week.
