Running successful programmes
Developing programmes
All programmes are required to have explicit links with the National Curriculum (consisting of The New Zealand Curriculum and Te Marautanga o Aotearoa), and Te Whāriki, as appropriate.
Providers should be aware of key Ministry priority areas to make sure learning experiences have natural links made where possible.
Providers are encouraged to contact staff in your local Ministry of Education office who have knowledge of local schools and may be able to offer suggestions to enhance your programmes. A searchable database of New Zealand schools is on the Education Counts website.
The role of educators
New Zealand case studies show that educators are highly regarded and provide access to knowledge that would not otherwise be available to teachers and students.
Positive, enthusiastic educators are the key to helping students learn from the on-site experiences.
Teachers consider that educators, as experts in their field, stimulate and extend student learning. Successful educators are those who are enthusiastic, use a variety of approaches to engage the students, and tailor their approach to the particular needs of each class.
Relationships and planning
As a Ministry of Education provider, you will work in partnership with schools to make sure your programme supports effective teaching and learning.
ELC visits are more likely to contribute to student learning when you:
- work closely with the class teacher before, during, and after the visit; it is important to make sure the site activities are linked to class activities
- have the same learning goals as the teacher
- build friendly, education-based relationships with students, teachers, and parents during the visit.
The case studies show teachers like to meet with educators before a visit because it helps them to select the most appropriate programme and prepare their students for the visit.
Before the visit, find out where your programme best fits within the classroom programme. This discussion will guide you in deciding on the level to pitch your discussions and activities.
A focus on learning
Enriching Local Curriculum experiences are more effective when:
- sites are seen as places for learning
- students get hands-on experience
- students link the site experiences to school experiences
- experiences are memorable and make the subject “come to life”
- students have access to informed staff.
Managing the visit
At the start of the visit, discuss the expected site etiquette with students and accompanying adults. This is key to managing the visit and ensuring appropriate and safe behaviour.
Give clear instructions to adult helpers on supporting students to behave appropriately, focus on the exhibits, and promote discussion. When everyone is clear about the learning goals, it helps to keep students focused on the purpose of the visit.
Children’s Act
All providers are obliged to comply with the Children’s Act 2014. Details are explained on the Children’s Act.
