Senior Secondary Science Subjects for Years 11-13 for the New Zealand Curriculum

Earlier today, the Ministry of Education confirmed the list of senior secondary subjects that will make up Phase | Tūārere 5 of the national curriculum (Years 11–13). These will roll out gradually from 2028.

Image source: Tāhūrangi, 11/09/2025

For science educators, the confirmed subject list is particularly significant.

• At Year 12 and Year 13: Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Earth & Space Science remain. A new subject "Primary Industry" is listed, this is an industry-led subject, to be developed with Industry Skills Boards (ISBs), recognising pathways into employment and training.

• At Year 11: Two new science subjects are listed (names and scopes still to be confirmed) – these will sit within the NZC Science learning area.

Agriculture and Horticulture are notably absent from the confirmed list of subjects, with “Primary Industry” appearing in their place.

Image source: Tāhūrangi, 11/09/2025

In Te Marautanga o Aotearoa (TMoA), pūtaiao subjects include:

• Tātai Arorangi (new) – astronomy/space science in te reo Māori

• Mātai Ahupūngao (Physics)

• Mātai Koiora (Biology)

• Mātai Matū (Chemistry)

• Ao ā-nuku Ao ātea (Earth & Space Science)

• Ahumahi Matua (Primary Industry)

  
  

Subjects with names given in both English and te reo Māori will share the same common purpose and core knowledge, and will be available in both pathways.

Further Information

The original Ministry of Education announcement, including the full information sheet on confirmed Years 11–13 subjects, can be found here