Principals and associations criticise new draft school curriculum

Wednesday 29 October 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Wed 29 Oct 2025, 6:47pm

In this story New Zealand Principals' Federation, Leanne Otene

The release of draft primary and intermediate school curriculums has prompted a revolt by the Principals Federation and criticism from subject associations. Critics claim the documents are old-fashioned and sideline Māori knowledge and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. One Porirua principal described the changes as a recolonisation of the education system.

How they headlined it

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1. The PostWed 29 Oct 2025, 5:00pm

   Principal ‘absolutely gobsmacked’ at new draft curriculum (opens in new tab)

2. RNZWed 29 Oct 2025, 6:02pm

   'Just absolutely ridiculous' - new school curriculum unpopular with principals (opens in new tab)

3. Otago Daily TimesWed 29 Oct 2025, 6:47pm

   'Disgusted': New curriculum prompts revolt (opens in new tab)