by Rebecca Thomas
As educators, we pride ourselves on fostering critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making in our students. Is it time we apply those same principles to the recent curriculum refresh process?
Details that have come to light yesterday present an opportunity for reflection and improvement in how such crucial educational reforms can be improved upon.
The timeline of events surrounding the Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) and the subsequent curriculum writing process suggests a departure from established practices. It appears that our politicians, entrusted with shaping the future of education, have fallen prey to a narrow ideological agenda pushed by a small group of individuals.
Key points of concern in the ‘alarming report’ published yesterday include:
1. The composition and influence of the Ministerial Advisory Group
2. The apparent setting aside of prior work by diverse experts
3. Questions about adherence to proper procurement processes
4. Potential discrepancies between public statements and actual events
5. The role of in-house Ministry of Education expertise in the process
Whilst there was speculation and media hype around all of these ‘incidents’, it might be time to now factor how these very significant events have 'accumulated' as we are invited to give feedback on the draft English and Maths curriculum (remember that window closes on 6th September). This could be an opportunity for our unions to speak up and insist that there is an independent inquiry before these draft documents are rushed into existence.
It also might be an opportunity for our government and Ministry officials; they have an opportunity to show their willingness to engage with suggestions - creating a powerful demonstration of their commitment to education. To show strength by insisting in a robust inquiry after such misgivings, might restore faith in the education community and rally support. We all ultimately want the same end after all - a curriculum that is equitable and one our kids deserve.
A review could potentially safeguard the reputation of the current Minister of Education. It would also reflect positively on the Minister of Education's commitment to upholding the values of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in our education system. Given that Te Mātaiaho is founded on a whakapapa intended to address historical inequities, ensuring its development process is beyond reproach is crucial.
By proactively addressing these concerns, the Minister could demonstrate leadership and a commitment to best practices in educational policy-making. This approach could prevent any perception of the process as having multiple 'mishaps', or being rushed, which might otherwise risk labels of gullibility or naivety.
Deep down we all know this is not how a democratic, evidence-based education system should function. The curriculum is too important to be shaped on unstable ground.
We must demand better for our students and our profession.
A constructive path forward:
Initiate an independent review of the curriculum refresh process.
Engage in open dialogue with diverse stakeholders in the education community.
Consider pausing implementation to allow for thorough consultation and potential refinements.
Commit to transparent communication about decision-making processes in educational policy.
To educators and union representatives; let's approach this situation with a spirit of collaboration, offering constructive feedback before the 6th September is upon us. Make time and use our expertise to support the improvement of our curriculum development processes.
Te Mātaiaho, is built on a whakapapa that demands protection and respect. Grounded in honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi, it aims to shape the learning experiences of our students. Given its importance and the historical harm inflicted by a colonised education system on Māori, it's crucial that its development is transparent, inclusive, and based on robust evidence and diverse expertise.
The Minister of Education, aware of this historical context, must ensure that all writings and drafts related to Te Mātaiaho are managed with the utmost care and integrity. We must hold ourselves accountable to create a curriculum that truly serves all learners and helps heal the wounds of the past, not replicate them.
To my fellow educators: it's time to speak up. Let's engage constructively with our unions, school leaders, Board of Trustees and the Ministry. Share your thoughtful feedback through appropriate channels. Contact your unions, write to your MPs, and make your voices heard. Our goal should be to foster a collaborative approach that ensures our curriculum is developed with honesty and reflects the best educational practices.
To our government and Ministry officials: We respectfully request your openness to dialogue and your willingness to address the concerns raised. Your leadership in fostering transparency and inclusivity in this process will be crucial in maintaining trust within the education community.
We owe it to our students to ensure that our curriculum is developed with integrity.
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