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Purpose of the review#
The Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Programme Requirements set out what approved teacher education programmes must do to prepare student teachers for teaching in early learning services and schools.
We are reviewing these requirements. This follows the transfer of responsibility for the ITE requirements from the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and the introduction of the 2026 Standards for the Teaching Profession, which take effect next year.
The requirements have been in place for about 8 years. Since then, the education system has changed. Expectations of teachers have evolved, and new evidence has emerged about effective teaching and learning.
This review will help make sure the requirements remain relevant and support high-quality teacher education. It will also help to make sure beginning teachers are well prepared to meet the needs of learners, whānau | families and communities.
Your feedback will help test the analysis, assumptions and opportunities identified through the review and inform the next stage of work.
Read about the ITE Programme Requirements.
Discussion document#
Before you give us your feedback, you should read the discussion document or the summary of the discussion document.
The discussion document seeks feedback on opportunities to strengthen the ITE requirements.
It outlines:
- why the requirements are being reviewed
- changes in the education system that may affect the requirements
- principles to guide future updates to the requirements
- opportunities to improve the current requirements.
No decisions have been made about any of the opportunities described in the document, or about future timelines. The opportunities are intended to explore different ideas and encourage discussion.
What we are seeking feedback on#
We are seeking feedback on:
- whether the reasons for the review reflect current strengths, challenges and opportunities
- whether the opportunities identified focus on the right areas for improvement
- the potential benefits, risks and unintended impacts of the opportunities presented
- any practical challenges or considerations for putting changes into place
- alternative approaches, evidence or perspectives we should consider.
Your feedback will help us:
- understand whether the opportunities reflect sector experiences
- identify practical considerations for implementing change
- assess potential benefits, risks and unintended impacts
- refine future proposals and inform the next stage of the review.
What the review could mean for you#
Any future changes would aim to strengthen ITE and support a safe, capable and trusted teaching workforce.
For ITE providers
You may need to consider how programmes are designed, delivered and assessed if the requirements change. The review also provides an opportunity to ensure programmes remain relevant and responsive to the needs of learners, schools, early learning services and communities.
For practicum partners
You may see changes to expectations for programme content, professional experiences, assessment approaches or graduate outcomes.
For schools, kura, centres and associate teachers
Schools, kura, centres and associate teachers play an important role in supporting student teachers. Any future changes could influence how practicum experiences are organised and how providers and placement settings work together.
For student teachers
Any future changes would aim to make sure student teachers are well prepared for the classroom and early learning services. This includes developing the knowledge, practical experience and confidence needed to teach effectively in diverse learning environments.
Have your say#
We encourage anyone with an interest in ITE, teaching and learning, or the future teacher workforce, to share their views.
You can provide feedback by:
- completing the short online survey below
- using the same online survey to make a written submission of any length
- emailing your feedback or submission to us
- providing your feedback in an alternative format, including New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), audio, video, or another accessible format.
Complete the feedback survey.
Survey: Review of the Initial Teacher Education Programme Requirements – SurveyMonkey
Email: [email protected]
Before you give us your feedback, you should read the discussion document or the summary of the discussion document.
Next steps#
The review will take place in 3 phases.
Phase 1: Engagement#
2 October to 13 November 2026
During this phase, we will engage with stakeholders to gather early feedback on the reasons for the review and the opportunities outlined in the discussion document.
Phase 2: Analysis and proposal development#
December 2026 to March 2027
During this phase, we will:
- review and analyse feedback received during engagement
- identify key themes and insights
- develop draft consultation documents
- seek advice and feedback from the Expert Advisory Group (EAG).
Phase 3: Formal consultation#
April to June 2027
Feedback gathered during Phase 1 and the proposal development phase will help refine proposals and inform formal consultation with the sector.
What happens after the consultation#
After consultation closes, we will review and consider the feedback received.
We will communicate decisions about any changes to the ITE Programme Requirements directly with key stakeholders and the sector.
If changes are agreed, implementation planning will begin. This may include guidance and support for providers and other affected groups.
A detailed timeline will be published as the review progresses.
Supporting documents and accessibility#
A document of frequently asked questions are below to help you participate.
Alternative formats expected to be available from the week beginning 19 October:
- Easy Read.
- Large print.
- Braille.
- Audio.
- New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL).
- Webinar recording.
If you need help completing this survey, or would like to read the discussion document in a format that we have not provided, contact us.
Email: [email protected]
We will do our best to provide information in a format that meets your needs and supports your participation in this review.
