Strengthening the Foundations: Rethinking Initial Teacher Education Training in New Zealand

New Zealand's education system after a survey from OECD's Teaching And Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2024  finds itself at a critical turning point, showcasing that Initial Teacher Education (ITE) is not well equipped with new teachers with the confidence and capabilities they need to really excel in classrooms and create a much needed impact in today’s time.

According to the survey, a concerning 62 per cent of graduate teachers do not feel confident teaching all the subjects within their scope. Meanwhile, 54 per cent express uncertainty about their pedagogical approaches for the essential “how to teach” that highlights effective learning.

Education Minister Erica Stanford acknowledged the findings, noting,

“Building the workforce of the future is one of our six priority areas and it’s concerning to see that our new teachers are not sufficiently prepared for the classroom.”

She emphasised that these results fall well below those of many comparable OECD nations and mark a significant decline since the previous survey in 2018.

Improving Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Quality

The Government has committed to a more complete education reform, putting teacher training and preparation the highlight under policy changes. Efforts are in progress to improve the quality of ITE through updated programme requirements, stronger management and clearer policy direction.

Minister Stanford once again mentioned her strong commitment to supporting teachers undergoing ongoing training or professional development, as curriculum gets updated constantly . She also mentioned that there are further announcements regarding strengthening classroom readiness and professional capability.

Technology, Satisfaction and Evolving Classroom Needs

Interestingly, the TALIS 2024 report also highlights areas of progress. Teachers across New Zealand are embracing digital technology more confidently than their peers in many other countries, with increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in classroom settings.

Job satisfaction levels have also noticeably risen, about 50% of teachers are satisfied with their salary, from just 36% in 2018, while more than 85% reported enjoying their work, their schools and the act of teaching itself. Good to know that the majority feel valued overall professionally. 

Between 2018 and 2024, the number of teachers (specifically those teaching Years 7–10) working in schools where at least 10% of students need learning support rose sharply, from 19% to 77%. This means that more teachers are now working with diverse groups of students who have different learning needs (students with disabilities, behavioural issues or language challenges).

Investment in Learning Support and the Future of Teaching

The Government’s Budget for 2025 includes what Minister Stanford explains as “the most significant investment in learning support in a generation.” The $750 million initiative is intended to increase specialists and support staff across schools, representing a system-wide reform aimed to strengthen classroom teaching and inclusive education.

With these changes, New Zealand is taking steps towards ensuring that every teacher enters the classroom with the tools, training and confidence to deliver the world-leading education Kiwi students deserve.