Maori culture in the New Zealand school curriculum

Maori education can be provided in New Zealand schools under the new NCEA, the National Certificate of Achievement, which is the official New Zealand high school diploma.

Raranga (braiding) Mau Rakau (traditional martial art) and whakairo (sculpting) are among 13 subjects conceived for students in NCEA Levels 2 and 3.

An opportunity to teach New Zealand youth about Maori history and culture

Hebery Harris, Director T Buna Wanaka, the Maori and Pasifika Engagement Center, sees the opportunity here to teach young Maori Kiwi history and culture: “ Advocating for topics like this to be part of the future direction of‘New Zealand’ Based on South Island It will inspire them, we hope, to open up new potential horizons for themselves and our communitiess. »

NCEA redesign

In May 2019, the government announced a set of seven changes to strengthen NCEA and maintain confidence in the qualifications New Zealand Like: making NCEAs more accessible, with fewer barriers for learners with disabilities as well as making it easier to seek support. Develop new ways to learn about Maori and build teacher capacity to improve resources, support and pathways for Maori learners and even maintain NCEA Level 1 as an option.

Subjects such as outdoor education have already been tested to allow the possibility of obtaining NCEA credits while participating in outdoor activities; Classes include rock climbing, personal development, mountain biking or kayaking. Others, such as applied mathematics and science, have been proposed to provide students with more options and choices for future jobs.

Suggested topics are not final and the Ministry of Education is seeking feedback until August 11. Final decisions will be made in September.