Massey University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundations of primary teaching practice with specialist Māori-medium content. You will study kaupapa Māori pedagogies, te reo Māori at an immersion level, tikanga and mātauranga Māori, and the design and assessment of culturally responsive curricula for Māori learners. Core study areas include child development and learning theories, planning and assessment for learning, literacy and numeracy teaching in Māori-medium contexts, classroom and behaviour management, inclusivity and special educational needs, and the use of digital technologies in teaching.

Practice-focused courses are integrated throughout the degree. Regular supervised professional placements in kura kaupapa Māori and Māori immersion units provide hands-on experience in classroom teaching, community engagement and whānau partnerships. Assessment methods include lesson planning and delivery, reflective teaching journals, research projects grounded in kaupapa Māori methodologies, language proficiency demonstrations and on-placement evaluations.

Typical modules and topics

• Foundations of Teaching and Learning in Te Ao Māori
• Te reo Māori for Teaching (intermediate to advanced immersion levels)
• Mātauranga Māori, tikanga and kaupapa Māori pedagogy
• Curriculum design and assessment in Māori-medium settings
• Child development and inclusive practices
• Literacy and oral language development in Māori-medium classrooms
• Mathematics teaching and assessment for primary learners
• Professional practice: supervised teaching placements

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to have university entrance as defined by New Zealand secondary qualification standards, including required literacy and numeracy credits. Academic preparation in subjects that develop language and communication skills is advantageous. A good command of te reo Māori is essential for success in this immersion programme; applicants may be asked to demonstrate language proficiency through interviews, written samples, or placement of study in te reo.

Selection often involves a combination of academic records, a personal statement that outlines commitment to Māori-medium education and community, and an interview. Candidates should be prepared to provide referee reports and to meet professional suitability checks such as a police vet and safety declarations required for working with children. Graduates will be eligible to pursue teacher registration through the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, subject to meeting the Council's professional standards and registration requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for primary teaching roles in kura kaupapa Māori, rumaki units, bilingual and immersion settings, and Māori-medium early childhood services. Career paths commonly include classroom teacher, team leader, curriculum developer, Māori-medium literacy coordinator and specialist roles supporting Māori learners and whānau engagement. With further experience or postgraduate study, graduates may move into leadership positions such as deputy principal or principal, teacher educator roles, iwi or education trust positions, or policy and advisory roles in kaupapa Māori education and community development.

Why study at Massey University

Massey University has an established teacher education programme with strong links to Māori communities and kura kaupapa, offering practical placement opportunities across a wide network of Māori-medium schools. The university supports learners with reo development pathways, mentoring from experienced Māori-medium educators and staff who combine academic expertise with practical classroom experience. Flexible delivery options and integrated practicum placements help students balance academic study with hands-on teaching practice. Studying at Massey provides a pathway to enter the teaching profession with a firm grounding in kaupapa Māori pedagogy and the skills needed to support Māori learners and their whānau.