We are all very aware of the recent and ongoing changes to the New Zealand curriculum by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the excitement, trepidation and concern they are causing to teachers and parents. There is much concern about the rate of change within the education system.
At LearnWell, we share these concerns and are actively planning how to best support learners, teachers, and parents as these changes continue to unfold. We are focused on ensuring our resources reflect the new curriculum and meet the needs of those teaching in 2027 and beyond.
What is the MOE Doing?
In October 2025, the MOE published the final versions of the English, and Mathematics and Statistics curricula for implementation from 2026. There were changes between the drafts and the final versions of these two documents.
Also in October, the draft curricula for the other subject areas were released. These are due in their final form from the MOE in mid-2026, with a view to implementing them in 2027. Very tight timelines.
What is LearnWell Doing?
At LearnWell, we are no different, and we are actively working on and planning how to best meet the needs of learners, teachers, and parents amid the rapid changes. This all takes time.
LearnWell Timeframes
Years 1-8
- Start Right Mathematics for the new curriculum will be available from Term 2, 2026 for Years 1-6. Years 7 and 8 are already available, aligned to the draft Understand, Know, Do (UKD) model curriculum.
- Other Start Right subjects will follow this order of release: English, Science, then Social Studies.
- Homework books will be updated last, following the completion of core subjects.
- All newly updated books will be clearly labelled as “New Curriculum” on our website and in-store.
Years 9-10
- Updates for Year 9 and 10 resources will follow similar priorities: beginning with English, and Mathematics and Statistics, followed by Science, Social Sciences, and other subjects.
What Resources Should I Use Now?
Rest assured, the current Start Right Workbooks are still very effective companion resources to reinforce classroom learning. They offer structured learning support and are suitable for both classroom reinforcement and home use, including homeschooling.
Learning Guides and Learning Workbooks are also excellent choices and continue to be used in many schools.