The New Zealand government is investigating the creation of a specialist subject on artificial intelligence for Year 13 students. The initiative is part of a broader secondary curriculum refresh. Subjects are expected to be phased in from 2028, with draft subject specifications to be released from early 2027 for school feedback and familiarisation.
This represents a move toward formalising AI as a distinct subject area within secondary education, building on voluntary AI literacy initiatives at primary level. The subject design process will incorporate educator and student input.
Who it affects: Secondary schools and Year 13 students; education curriculum bodies; schools participating in consultation process.
What is notably missing: Subject specification and content framework (still in development); no binding implementation mandate; unclear whether subject will be mandatory, elective, or open to schools with resources; no defined teacher qualification or training requirements.