Foreword

Education is the foundation of opportunity — for our children, our communities, and our country. The pathways of education: Ngā Ara o te Mātauranga, 2024 provides a picture of how New Zealand’s education system is performing, from early learning through to schooling and tertiary education.

The data tells a mixed story. While we’re seeing early signs of improvement in student achievement and attendance, it’s clear there is still work to do. That’s why this Government is focused on teaching the basics brilliantly — ensuring every student builds a strong foundation in reading, writing, and maths.

Curriculum reform is underway. We’ve introduced new English and Maths curricula that are knowledge-rich, clear, and grounded in the science of learning. These changes are designed to better prepare our children for success, and we’re backing teachers with professional development to support their implementation.

Through Budget 2024, we’ve invested $67 million over four years to roll out structured literacy in all state primary schools, and a further $45 million to support students who need English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) support.

We’re also growing the education workforce, adding 1,600 new teaching positions through the School Onsite Teacher Training Programme. And we’re investing $1.5 billion over four years to improve school property — making sure students are learning in warm, dry, and safe classrooms.

In the tertiary sector, Ministers Hon Penny Simmonds and Hon Dr Shane Reti are leading reforms to build a sustainable system that supports learners, businesses, and providers. These changes are beginning to show positive results.

There is more to do. But we are committed to working alongside the dedicated people in our education system to deliver meaningful change — and to build a world-leading education system for all New Zealanders.

Hon Erica Stanford

Minister of Education