New model to better support learners with highest needs

A new system is being designed to better support children and young people with the highest learning support needs. 

The Government has announced substantial changes following the Highest Needs Review, which received 1100 submissions. Associate Education Minister Jan Tinetti said “we invest $1.2 billion each year on learning support, yet we know the supports available for those with the highest needs have historically been fragmented and lots of our kids and young people aren’t getting the support they need, when they need it”.

New model to better support kids with the highest needs - beehive.govt.nz(external link)

A new mixed-model approach will be developed based on the Enabling Good Lives (EGL) principles and outcome domains of Ka Hikitia – Ka Hāpaitia (Ka Hikitia), the Māori Education Strategy. 

Schools, kura and early learning services will partner with learners and their whānau to consider the individual’s needs and decide what would work best for each learner. This will shift away from an application-based system and is designed to empower students and their whānau to have greater choice and control. 

The Ministry of Education| Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga is to work alongside Whaikaha to design and develop the new system, and are to report back to the Minister in mid-2023 with a business case and work programme.

For more information and to read the Highest Needs Review stakeholder voice report developed by NZCER, go to Highest Needs Change Programme.

Last reviewed: Has this been useful? Give us your feedback