Working in mixed ability groups is a feature of destreamed classrooms. Image: AdobeStock by Syda Productions
The new report documents progress from the original destreaming plan titled Kōkirihia – The plan to end streaming in our schools. This plan has three key parts: awareness, alternatives and actions.
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On awareness, there has been increasing understanding and research on the harms of streaming in our schools. Streaming has been shown to be one of the key drivers of inequity, with Māori, Pacific and low-SES students being over-represented in lower streams. Lower stream classes are found to trap students in a low achievement pathway. Media coverage of the harms of streaming also increased, with community engagement rising and Kōkirihia being noted in the 2022 OECD Pisa report.
Alternatives to streaming have been implemented in many schools, with viable alternate models proving to lift achievement and improve outcomes. High expectations from teachers and mixed-ability classroom structures and groupings led to improved student achievement. Mixed-ability and flexible grouping, supportive class environment and skill-based goal setting and teacher monitoring were shown to be key characteristics of destreamed classrooms. Several schools and initatives were highlighted, such as Te Kōmanawa Rowley School, Christ’s College, and Fairfield College.
Finally, creating a movement for rangatahi was highlighted as a predominant action. This ensured young people felt they had autonomy over their futures and were part of the decision making around destreaming.
Ending streaming practises
Kōkirihia – The plan to end streaming in our schools, was released in early 2023 following years of research that showed streaming was leading to inequitable outcomes in our schools, especially for rangatahi Māori.
The plan was jointly created by the Ministry of Education, Mātauranga Iwi Leaders Group, and Tokona te Raki. Input was sought and received from these groups as well as rangatahi, tumuaki, CORE education, universities, NZQA and ERO.
The first annual report and the Kōkirihia action plan can be found here in full.
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