5727 (2026). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister of Education

5727 (2026). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister of Education: How, if at all, are Pacific perspectives embedded structurally into the Ministry of Education refreshed curriculum?

Hon Erica Stanford: I am advised by the Ministry of Education (the Ministry) that the New Zealand Curriculum is being developed in line with agreed design principles. The New Zealand Curriculum recognises that all learners, including Pacific learners, should be supported to reach their full potential. It is brought to life through context in the classroom, where teachers are supported by a curriculum that allows them to focus on inspiring learning through rich and engaging local, national, and global contexts. It includes contexts that matter for all learners, recognising the wide variety of languages, cultures, and identities of New Zealand. The draft Social Sciences learning area for Years 0–10 was released in October 2025. It includes curriculum content that supports every student to learn about Pacific cultures and history. This will be supported by a growing range of resources as curriculum content is finalised. Feedback on the draft learning area is welcomed through to 24 April 2026. The draft Social Sciences learning area can be accessed here: https://newzealandcurriculum.tahurangi.education.govt.nz/5637290851.p#FileDownloads