PENZ urges caution and clarity as Government proposes major changes to NCEA

Physical Education New Zealand (PENZ) says the Government’s proposal to replace NCEA is significant, but warns that meaningful consultation and curriculum clarity are critical if the changes are to work for teachers and students alike.

The new proposal, announced yesterday by Education Minister Erica Stanford, would see NCEA Levels 1-3 replaced with a new national qualifications system. Public consultation is now open until Monday 15 September.

PENZ Chief Executive Heemi McDonald says the proposed direction shows intent to improve the coherence of qualifications, but also raises concern about timing and the current lack of curriculum detail.

“It’s a mixed bag,” says McDonald. “There are clearly some positive steps here that aim to address long-standing concerns with NCEA. But the reality is we’re still waiting for the refreshed curriculum to land, and that makes it difficult to fully assess how these new qualifications would work in practice.”

The proposal includes:

• Removing NCEA Level 1;
• Introducing a Foundation Skills Award in Year 11;
• Replacing NCEA Levels 2 and 3 with two new qualifications: the New Zealand Certificate of Education (Year 12) and New Zealand Advanced Certificate of Education (Year 13);
• Clearer grading (A–E) and greater subject structure;
• Stronger alignment with vocational and academic pathways.

McDonald says PENZ supports the goal of improving coherence and clarity, but cautions that the compressed timeframe and lack of information present challenges.

“We’re asking teachers to respond to a major qualification system shift without knowing what curriculum they’ll be delivering it with. That’s a big ask, particularly in an already stretched education workforce.”

He also urged educators to engage directly with the consultation and form their own views based on the proposal itself, not just the headlines.

“Educators need time and space to read the discussion document, attend a webinar, and ask critical questions. We’re encouraging our members to take that time and have their say.”

“We’re not saying it’s all bad or all good. We’re saying: read it closely, think critically, and make sure your voice is heard.”

As a subject association, PENZ is engaging closely with our members and wider networks to gather feedback and advocate for physical education throughout this process.

We encourage all teachers of physical education, curriculum leaders, and school leaders to read the discussion document and participate in the consultation survey by Monday 15 September. 

As a voice for quality physical education in Aotearoa New Zealand, PENZ will continue to advocate for clarity, fairness, and adequate time for feedback with regards to changes that affect our learners and the educators who support them.