Model underpins literacy & communication and maths

By Education Gazette editors

Issue: Volume 102, Number 10

Posted: 14 August 2023

Reference #: 1HAbKn

The Common Practice Model will provide greater clarity and direction for teaching literacy, communication, and maths.

The Common Practice Model outlines the evidence-informed principles, pedagogical approaches and practices for teaching literacy, communication, and maths skills which are relevant for learning in Aotearoa New Zealand. An early draft of the CPM was published in March 2023 and the full CPM is expected to be released in term 4, 2023.

Schools will start using the Common Practice Model from term 1, 2024 and Te Tāhuhu o Te Mātauranga | The Ministry of Education is encouraging kaiako, school leaders, parents and whānau to learn more about the Common Practice Model.

Strong literacy, communication and maths skills provide a foundation for learning for ākonga and progression in these areas has been lower, with teachers and leaders asking for greater clarity and direction.

There will be clear guidance on each phase of learning from Te Mātaiaho | the refreshed NZ curriculum, so teachers can focus on how students are doing in relation to curriculum progress outcomes.

The Ministry has been working with teachers, leaders, and other experts to develop the Common Practice Model so it is relevant for the learning needs of all students in Aotearoa.   

It will guide quality-assured, consistent teaching and assessment practices and approaches – from early learning through to the end of secondary schooling.

Most importantly, the Common Practice Model and supporting guidance will help teachers plan learning that meets the needs of all children and young people. It will give whānau and students confidence that literacy, communication, and maths are being taught in the best possible ways.

In kaupapa Māori and Māori-medium educational settings using Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, the Ako Framework will guide teaching of te reo matatini and pāngarau. The Ako Framework is in development and expected to be available to kura and schools to explore at the beginning of 2024.

Resources available now and coming soon

To support teachers and leaders to use the Common Practice Model, the Ministry is developing a range of resources, guidance and professional learning supports and will keep the sector updated about when those will be available.

Until then, resources are available on their website that explain more about pedagogical approaches and what the Common Practice Model means. Visit Common Practice Model Resources – Education in New Zealand(external link)

Read more about the Common Practice Model and Literacy & Communication and Maths Strategy:

Education Minister Jan Tinetti talks about the importance of the Common Practice Model: Principles and pedagogy underpin Common Practice Model – Education Gazette(external link)

Insights from members of the Common Practice Model Contributors Group: Model to address literacy, communication and maths – Education Gazette(external link)