As the 2025 school year begins, students across the Hibiscus Coast and the rest of New Zealand will see a renewed emphasis on literacy and numeracy, following the government’s push for structured and explicit teaching methods.

Education Minister Erica Stanford announced that all state schools will now follow a knowledge-rich curriculum, designed to ensure students receive consistent and effective instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics.

“A world-leading education system is a key driver to economic growth,” Stanford said.

“We want all children to be proficient and confident in reading, writing, and maths so they grow up and live the lives they want.”

The new approach focuses on structured teaching that does not leave learning to chance, alongside improved assessment tools to identify students in need of additional support earlier.

According to Stanford, this change aims to create a strong foundation for all students, regardless of their career aspirations.

To support the transition, the government has allocated $30 million for professional learning, development, and classroom resources, including maths workbooks and online learning tools.

These investments will provide 433,000 students with essential materials to track their progress and support their learning.

Teachers will also receive guidance on what to teach, when, and how, ensuring a standardised approach across schools.

As the structured literacy and numeracy curriculum is embedded this year, the Ministry of Education will continue updating other subject areas up to Year 13, alongside ongoing reforms to NCEA and school infrastructure improvements.

Stanford extended her best wishes to teachers, students, and parents as the new school year begins, stating that the government remains committed to ensuring every child receives a strong education.

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