Understanding Your Child’s Mid-Term Report
By Sara Quelch | Posted: Wednesday May 6, 2026
In 2026, all New Zealand schools have transitioned to the refreshed National Curriculum (Te Mātaiaho).
From "Levels" to "Phases"
For years, New Zealand schools used a system of eight "Curriculum Levels." This year, we have moved to Phases of Learning:
Phase 1: Years 0–3
Phase 2: Years 4–6
Phase 3: Years 7–8
Year 7 and 8 now sit within Phase 3.
Instead of a broad level that might span several years, Phase 3 focuses specifically on the important transition years before secondary school.
What this means for your child's report:
Because the new curriculum is more rigorous and specific, it is normal to see a shift in where your child sits compared to previous years.
You will see progress described using new markers:
Emerging, Developing, Consolidating, Proficient, or Exceeding. (See the images attached to better understand this.)
The "Reset" Effect: Because the requirements for "Proficient" at Year 8 have been updated to align with modern secondary standards, a student who was "Achieving" last year might be "Developing" under the new, higher criteria.
Don't Panic: This doesn't mean they have gone backward; it means the markers have altered to better prepare them for the future.
How you can help at home
The best way to support your child is to look at the "Next Steps" section of the report. The 2026 reporting framework is designed to be a partnership. We will provide parent teacher interviews in the last week of term to support collaboration between home and school.