Education Minister Erica Stanford has announced a NZ$131 million investment in the 2026 Budget to support reading, writing and maths initiatives in New Zealand schools. The funding aims to 'level the playing field, reducing costs for schools and backing evidence-led reforms,' Stanford said.
The package includes NZ$67 million for structured literacy and maths resources, NZ$30 million for teacher training and professional development, and NZ$34 million for targeted support for students falling behind. The initiatives are part of the government's broader education strategy to improve foundational skills.
Stanford emphasized that the investment is based on evidence from successful programs in other countries. 'We are backing what works,' she stated. The funding will be rolled out over four years, starting in the 2026/27 school year.
Opposition education spokesperson Jan Tinetti criticized the announcement, saying it 'does not go far enough' and that schools need more sustained funding for teacher salaries and classroom resources. The government has defended the package as 'targeted and effective.'
