This section of Edusearch is designed to offer an overview of the New Zealand education system. Please select the appropriate section you are interested in for an overview.
General information
New Zealand has a superb education system and qualifications gained here are accepted as equal to the best in the world. For more than one hundred years it has had a state system which at the primary, intermediate and secondary levels has been free, secular and compulsory. At the same time there is a strong degree of tolerance which enables communities to build and operate private schools along religious or cultural lines.
Schooling is compulsory from age 6 to 16, however, most students begin school aged 5. All schools follow the NZ Curriculum.
Types of Schools
Most schools in New Zealand are part of the state system. While there is no legal requirement to pay fees at state schools, it is usual for parents to pay some fees/donations and charges. In general a child can attend any state school even one that is not the closest to where they live.
Although most students attend state-funded schools, parents, caregivers and students have other options.
Kura kaupapa Maori are state schools where teaching is in the Maori language.
Special Schools are state schools that provide education for students with special needs.
Integrated schoolsare part of the state sytem but have a special character, usually based on a philosophical or religious belief.
Independent (or private) schools are governed by their own boards. The students pay fees to attend.
Boarding Schools are either independent or part of state funded schools that charge fees for boarding.
Correspondence School provides distance education for students from primary school to adults.
Home-based schooling is available for parents or caregivers who meet the criteria set by the Ministry of Education.
State School Term dates from 2008 to 2011.
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Related links - overviews on specific areas within the NZ school system
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