52508 (2024). Hon Jan Tinetti to the Minister of Education

52508 (2024). Hon Jan Tinetti to the Minister of Education: Does the Minister agree with the President of the New Zealand Principals’ Federation, Leanne Otene, who said “There must be room for multiple approaches to teaching the curriculum to meet the diverse needs of our students”; if not, why not?

Hon Erica Stanford: Yes. It is critical that we have a knowledge-rich curriculum, underpinned by the science of learning, that is clear about what needs to be taught year-by-year. By prioritising methods proven to be effective, teachers are better supported to help their students succeed. Teachers will continue to respond to the diversity of students, recognising that they progress at different speeds, and they process and comprehend information in different ways. Teachers can therefore apply appropriate and effective teaching methods for their students, and differentiate learning accordingly, using their professional judgement. I also expect that teachers all over New Zealand will use diverse, creative and engaging ideas and approaches to bring the curriculum to life in their classrooms. Teachers are professionals and I know the passion they bring to planning exciting and thought-provoking experiences for their learners.