Skip to search boxSkip to navigationSkip to main content

Support for difficulties in learning, behaviour and disability in New Zealand's schools

  • Janice Wearmouth
    ,
  • Mere Berryman
Research Output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding Chapter Peer-review

Open access

Sustainable Development Goals

  • SDG 4 - Quality Education
    SDG 4 Quality Education

Abstract

Abstract: This chapter reflects on the way in which early forms of special education in 19th-century New Zealand, including categorisation and institutionalisation of individual young people, mirrored the societal frames of reference that the colonisers of the country brought with them. The system continued into the 20th century. In recent years, a greater focus on community support for children from a Māori perspective, and compliance with international human rights legislation, have led to a national policy for inclusive education and a goal of educating all learners in mainstream. However, there is no specific legislation regarding individualised notions of learners ‘with SEND’, and what schools provide can vary. National reports have critiqued aspects of the current system, for example, in some schools, apparent rejection of some students, widening of achievement gaps, paucity of provision and restrictions on disabled students’ career opportunities. Unless individual needs are identified and adequately addressed, learners cannot have equality of opportunity for the future. A new system for learning support that is designed to facilitate appropriate timely provision is being introduced across the country at the time of writing this chapter. We have yet to see whether this will address the concerns that have been raised.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding Chapter Peer-review

Host publication Subtitle

Perspectives Across Six Continents

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 239-252 (14 pages)

Publication milestones

  • Published - 27/09/2022

Publication status

Published - 27/09/2022

Publisher

Taylor & Francis, Australia, United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, Singapore

ISBN (Print)

9781032011004

ISBN (Electronic)

9781000635942

External Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/625536
  • Scopus: 85137694239

Host publication title

International Issues in SEND and Inclusion

Host publication editors

  • Alan Hodkinson
  • Zeta Williams-Brown

Access to documents

Publication metrics

Metrics

Download statistics
Download count
1