Submission on the proposal to replace NCEA

Our overarching position on the proposal to replace NCEA is that first and foremost, the education system exists to serve mokopuna – children and young people – and therefore it is them who should be the primary people whose experiences and views inform this consultation. Much more work must be done to hear the views of mokopuna and ensure their voices shape the changes to NCEA and all other decisions that impact their schooling and education.

Education reform, including changes to NCEA, must be grounded in a rights-based approach that recognises the voices of mokopuna and ensures their active participation in shaping policy and practice.

It is essential any changes recognise all learning pathways – vocational, practical, creative, and community-based – as high-quality, legitimate options that reflect the strengths and aspirations of all ākonga. Across many engagements spanning over a number of years, mokopuna throughout Aotearoa New Zealand have told their Children’s Commissioner that this is what is needed.

As one mokopuna put it: “This is huge – it’s our education, it’s our lives. We should be involved in these changes.”