Coasties can expect enhanced literacy and numeracy outcomes for young learners, thanks to new support for Early Childhood Education (ECE) teachers.

The Education Minister, Erica Stanford, announced that the online curriculum resource, Kōwhiti Whakapae, will now assist ECE teachers in strengthening planning, formative assessment, and teaching practices in oral language, literacy, and maths.

New research from the Education Review Office (ERO) highlights concerns about the number of children starting school without the necessary spoken language skills.

The report recommends establishing consistent expectations for students, tracking their progress, and increasing the use of effective teaching practices.

Additionally, it suggests supporting parents and whānau in developing language skills at home.

"We want every child to have confidence when they start at school. Implementing the oral language, literacy, and maths content of Kōwhiti Whakapae will support children to grow as readers, writers, mathematicians, and life-long learners," Ms. Stanford stated.

The new online tools will allow teachers to adjust their practices based on evidence-based judgments of a child's progress.

Furthermore, these resources will provide parents with a clearer understanding of their child’s learning and development.

Oral language is recognised as a crucial building block for all children, essential for their success at school and beyond.

The introduction of these tools marks a significant step toward lifting achievement and closing the equity gap within the education system.