New guidance supports inclusive teaching practice across Aotearoa New Zealand
14 May 2026
The Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand has released new Inclusive Teaching Practice Guidance (ITPG) to support kaiako to build confident, inclusive practice for the diverse range of ākonga in every centre, kura and classroom.
The work began when Education Review Office research highlighted ongoing barriers for neurodiverse children and learners with different abilities in early childhood education and schools. This included experiences of exclusion and difficulties accessing quality learning experiences. Their research recommended that there is a need to strengthen teacher capability and confidence to better support learners with diverse or complex needs.
In response, the Teaching Council developed the ITPG, which encourages kaiako to reflect on their everyday teaching and adapt practice to meet the needs of the learners in front of them. This supports the creation of inclusive environments when tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau feel welcome, free from racism, ableism and discrimination, and are active, visible members of their ECE service, kura and school.
To create this guidance, the Teaching Council took a broad and inclusive approach. Working closely with the ITPG advisory group which was made up of teachers, academics, and people with lived experience. The team also worked alongside schools and centres who trialled the guidance in their practice.
Their insight helped ensure the resource is grounded, practical and relevant across learning settings.
The guidance also supports kaiako to meet the requirements of the Standards for the Teaching Profession and the Code of Professional Responsibility, complementing the Ministry of Education’s role in providing targeted support for individual ākonga with different needs.
Structured around the framework of Open Heart, Open Mind, and Open Arms, the ITPG supports kaiako to grow their knowledge, reflect on their practice, and build confidence in inclusive teaching. It is designed to be used both individually and collaboratively, supporting professional conversations where kaiako can share challenges, learning and successes.
The ITPG is currently available on the Teaching Council website as an ongoing resource for inclusive practice.
Download the guidance document
As the whakataukī reminds us: Ahakoa iti, he iti mapihi pounamu - even the smallest piece of pounamu is precious. Every tamaiti deserves care, protection and respect, and this guidance supports kaiako to live that commitment every day.
