The New Zealand Curriculum

Statement from the Ministry of Education - February 2026

Reporting to Parents and Whānau

We have introduced new curriculum this year for Maths & Statistics and English for Years 0–10, and Te Reo Rangatira and Pāngarau Tau 0-10 wāhanga ako.

This means we are currently changing from the old to the new curriculum. We want to acknowledge that schools and kura will only have been using the new curriculum from the start of 2026, which includes new teaching and assessment methods and content. 

Because of this, you could see a change in your child’s progress or achievement compared to previous years, which may be the result of changes in the curriculum expectations for your child’s year level.

If you have concerns or questions about your child’s achievement, we strongly suggest talking with your child’s teacher or kaiako. They will also have used their own observations, classroom tasks and other tests when reporting on the progress your child or tamaiti is making.

Please consider the context for assessment and reporting this year in light of the above statement and as you seek to understand your child’s learning. 

You can find out more about The Ministry of Education Parent Portal which can be accessed by following this link: