Government confirms next steps for new senior secondary qualification

The Government has confirmed the next steps in developing a new senior secondary qualification in New Zealand to replace NCEA, with Cabinet agreeing to the overall structure following consultation.

New Zealand Parliament Buildings, Wellington. Source: Adobe Stock

What has been announced

• A new qualification system will replace NCEA, with two levels across Years 12 and 13

• NCEA Level 1 will be removed, with Year 11 refocused on curriculum-based learning

• A new Foundational Award will recognise literacy and numeracy at Year 11 level

• Subject-based assessment will be introduced at Years 12 and 13

• Industry-led subjects will be integrated into a single qualification pathway

• From 2028, all Year 11 students will be required to study English (or Te Reo Rangatira) and Mathematics (or Pāngarau)

Timeline

• 2026: Qualification design and curriculum finalised

• 2027: Preparation and professional learning

• 2028: NCEA Level 1 removed; Foundational Award introduced

• 2029: New Year 12 qualification begins

• 2030: New Year 13 qualification begins

What happens next

• This is the first phase (tranche one) of decisions

• Further detail is still to come, including:

  • Assessment structure (internal vs external)

  • Grading and achievement requirements

  • Moderation and comparability systems

The Government has indicated it will continue engaging with the sector as these technical details are developed.

See the Beehive Press Release Here

Bay Science has been keeping track of all developments. Information from the press release has now been included in the Science Curriculum timeline here.