Govt Introduces Consistent Assessment Tools to Enhance Student Achievement

“Currently, the first indication of student achievement comes when children sit NCEA. It’s far too late to discover in Year 10 or 11 that they lack the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed,” Ms. Stanford explained.

The Coalition Government is ensuring consistency in student assessment, providing parents with a clear understanding of their child's progress in school, Education Minister Erica Stanford announced.

“Currently, the first indication of student achievement comes when children sit NCEA. It’s far too late to discover in Year 10 or 11 that they lack the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed,” Ms. Stanford explained.

“At the earliest opportunity, parents deserve to know how their kids are progressing at school and be confident they are on the right track. That’s why the Government is introducing consistent assessment tools so parents and teachers across New Zealand will have a clearer picture of student learning.”

Starting in 2025, all children in their first year of schooling will undergo a phonics check to help teachers assess their ability to read words by sounding out letters. This will be conducted after 20 weeks of schooling and repeated after 40 weeks to identify and provide additional support for those who need it early in their education.

Additionally, progression monitoring in reading, writing, and maths will be introduced for children in years 3 through 8. These assessments will be conducted twice a year to guide teachers on the next steps needed for each child's learning.

The Curriculum Insights and Progress Study, which offers a national overview of literacy and numeracy in alignment with the New Zealand Curriculum, will also be expanded. Beginning in 2025, it will annually assess reading, writing, and maths for Years 3, 6, and 8.

“Further work is underway to review the types of targeted and tailored support available for those who need additional help. This is another step the Government is taking to lift student achievement and close the equity gap,” Ms. Stanford said.