Provisional figures reveal that the introduction of new literacy and numeracy requirements has contributed to a drop in NCEA Level 1 pass rates.
Only 64% of Year 11 students attempted Level 1 in 2024, with 70% of those succeeding, compared to an 82% pass rate in 2023. The decline is attributed to the tougher online literacy and numeracy tests, as well as a shift in the demographic makeup of students attempting Level 1.
Education Minister Erica Stanford acknowledged the drop as a reflection of the real literacy and numeracy challenges, something the previous NCEA system failed to expose. She reassured students they would have further opportunities to meet the requirements and urged them not to give up.
Stanford said the government was committed to improving outcomes through curriculum adjustments, direct student support, and changes to make the assessments more equitable.
Measures include reducing reading demands for numeracy tests, extending alternative achievement standards until 2027, and providing additional resources to schools with the greatest need.
While the drop in Level 1 pass rates is concerning, pass rates for Levels 2 and 3 and University Entrance have remained stable.
Image credit: Antoine Dautry
Fluoride, courtesy of the corporate state government.
Dumbing down the cattle on the farmlet.
Hey, ve even give them a vote, lol!