At Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand, one of our primary missions is to make a meaningful impact on education in New Zealand. We want to ensure that every tamaiti/rangatahi receives the best Montessori education journey. This means being strong advocates for the education sectors – early childhood, primary and secondary. Our commitment extends to ensuring government policies are balanced in favour of high-quality, accessible and affordable education.
We champion the rights and recognition of all kaiako. We believe that supporting and valuing our educators is not only essential to fostering an enriching learning environment for children and adolescence but also crucial for our kaiako, as they lay the foundation for lifelong learning.
Through ongoing professional development, policy advocacy and innovative resources, we aim to elevate the status and well-being of all teachers as they are pivotal to the success and sustainability of education in Aotearoa.
Education sector groups, including Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand, have signed a letter opposing the Minister’s plan to strip the Teaching Council of its independent function. They warn that removing teacher‑led decision‑making and handing control to the Ministry risks the standards that protect both students and the teaching profession.
Read moreA $104 million funding gap could force up to 400 early childhood education (ECE) centres to close, placing thousands of children and families at risk. The 0.5 per cent funding increase in Budget 2025 is not enough to handle rising costs. Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand calls on the Government to act now, redirecting Family Boost underspend and reforming funding before the sector collapses.
Read moreMANZ welcomes the proposed changes to ECE regulations but wants clearer guidelines on enforcement thresholds, the roles of specialists, and fairness in the process. We believe in a balanced approach that ensures the wellbeing of tamariki while keeping trust in services.
Read moreUp to 400 ECE centres are at risk of closure in the following year. With rising costs and static funding, some centres face six-figure shortfalls. Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand joins calls to redirect unspent FamilyBoost funds to prevent disruption for tamariki, whānau and kaiako.
Read moreOver 5,000 children are waiting for specialist learning support, but official data showing an 88‑day average wait masks much longer real delays. Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand centres report waits of up to nine months. Without faster access, children risk falling further behind academically, socially and emotionally.
Read moreMontessori Aotearoa New Zealand is concerned that the proposed NCEA reforms will reduce student agency and reintroduce a high-stakes exam culture. We advocate for maintaining the flexibility that makes NCEA inclusive and effective, while addressing challenges through resourcing and support, rather than a structural overhaul.
Read moreMontessori Aotearoa New Zealand supports changes to the Early Childhood Education regulatory system, while urging the maintenance of quality, encouraging innovation, and ensuring child wellbeing. Read our full submission on the proposed changes and our recommendations for a successful and inclusive transition.
Read moreTe Whāriki is a globally respected early learning curriculum that puts relationships, culture, and identity at the heart of education. Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand joins the call to protect and promote this taonga, which supports every tamaiti to thrive.
Read moreThe government plans to cut Early Childhood Education staffing costs, risking lowering teacher pay, reducing qualifications, and deepening inequity. Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand warns these moves will harm tamariki’s learning, worsen workforce shortages, and erode quality. The sector is urging proper funding, fair pay, and high standards across all early learning services.
Read moreMontessori Aotearoa New Zealand backs a new practising certificate for relief teachers, calling for clear, flexible pathways that maintain high standards and support workforce stability.
Read moreECE leaders welcome plans to shift licensing from the Ministry of Education to the Education Review Office, aiming for greater clarity and consistency. While the change offers promise, success depends on resourcing, workforce capability, and a focus on quality outcomes for tamariki.
Read moreGovernment cost-cutting measures in early childhood education are threatening teacher pay, quality, and equity. Montessori Aotearoa New Zealand warns of serious risks to tamariki and calls for a funding approach that values qualified teachers and supports all communities.
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