A remote learning ‘correspondence school’ with a difference

Te Kura is a remote learning program providing personalised learning opportunities to a diverse range of students from early childhood to Year thirteen across New Zealand. The school takes a ‘one size fits one’ approach to learning, working in close partnership with the schools, families and communities of participating students to develop learning experiences that connect to student interests. Te Kura was originally established to meet the needs of students living in remote areas with no access to traditional school services, however a substantial number of students now participate in programs because they require specific curriculum access, adaptation or extension.

Collaboration between teachers, students and families

Upon enrolment, learning advisors work with students to develop personalized learning programs that take into account their interests and abilities, and set goals and aspirations alongside other adults who may hold primary responsibility for supervising learning, such as parents or local teachers. Advisors connect with students and their teachers or families as students progress at their own pace through online programs. Some face-to-face engagement is available to students who need intensive support.

Real-world learning opportunities

For students in Years eleven to thirteen, Te Kura offers to the chance to participate in the Authentic Learning program. This involves undertaking an internship with a local business, organization or community group that is closely tied to the goals and aspirations set out in their personalised learning pathway. Students work with their learning advisor to identify areas of passion or talent on which to base their search for an internship, or particular careers they are interested in pursuing upon graduation. The learning advisor helps the student to develop a specific learning plan, taking into account the kind of skills and capabilities the student wishes to develop and which are required in the position. At the end of their internship students are expected to present their learning to their learning advisor, families, workplace mentor and new colleagues.

Despite the challenging and changing nature of its student population, Te Kura’s recent results show steady improvements in student achievement. The percentage of students in Years one to eight achieving ‘at’ or ‘above’ the national standard for English and Maths is increasing, as is the number of students in Years eleven to thirteen participating in and achieving their National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA).

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