The refreshed NZC is designed to create clearer learning pathways, strengthen foundational skills, and ensure all learners have opportunities to succeed. At Tōtara Park School, we focus on:

• Literacy & Numeracy – Strengthening foundational learning through structured approaches.
• Wellbeing & Identity – Supporting students’ social, emotional, and cultural development.
• Future-Focused Learning – Preparing students for an ever-changing world with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

At Tōtara Park School, we use the Better Start Literacy Approach (BSLA) in our junior classrooms to ensure strong foundations in reading, writing, and spelling. This evidence-based structured literacy approach provides explicit, sequential teaching of phonics and decoding skills, helping all learners develop confidence in literacy. Key features of BSLA include:

• Systematic phonics instruction – Teaching students to decode words using sound-letter knowledge.
• Small group learning – Targeted support to meet individual needs.
• Oral language development – Strengthening vocabulary and comprehension.
• Early identification & intervention – Ensuring all learners receive the support they need.

Our curriculum provides engaging opportunities across all learning areas, including:

• English – Reading, writing, oral language, and digital literacy.
• Mathematics & Statistics – Problem-solving, number sense, and real-world applications.
• Science & Technology – Inquiry-based learning to develop curiosity and innovation.
• Social Sciences – Exploring cultures, histories, and global perspectives.
• Health & Physical Education – Fostering wellbeing, teamwork, and active lifestyles.
• The Arts – Creativity through visual arts, music, dance, and drama.
• Te Ao Māori – Embracing te reo Māori, tikanga, and cultural identity.

At Tōtara Park School, we believe in inclusive, student-centered learning where every child is supported to achieve their potential. Our dedicated teachers use innovative and evidence-based practices to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences.

For more details about our curriculum, or to see learning in action, feel free to contact us or visit our classrooms!