Te Kura (formally The Correspondence School) offers distance learning programmes for almost 27,000 students per year across New Zealand and overseas.

How does Te Kura fit into ECE?

The school caters for children from three to five years of age who meet the eligibility criteria set by the Ministry of Education.

How does it work?

Te Kura’s early childhood education teachers support parents, whanau or caregivers by working with them to create a programme specifically suited to their child’s needs. Te Kura follows the national early childhood curriculum, Te Whāriki.

• reading the teacher’s letters and listening to any recorded messages the teacher sends
• reading the books to your child often
• encouraging and supporting your child when they use the learning materials
• filling in the comments sheet that accompanies a posting
• returning postings regularly.

Every posting has a letter or recorded message from the teacher, who will want to hear back from you. Your letters, phone calls and emails make children come alive for their teachers.
Each posting of work and materials is aimed at achieving a particular learning goal. Learning goals are based on each child’s interests and abilities, and the family’s situation and lifestyle.
Teachers are all trained, registered early childhood professionals. Parents, whanau or caregivers are provided information and programmes in order to plan play activities and learning experiences for their child. The school also has a wide variety of resources – books, puzzles, educational games, tapes, poster and art materials which families can borrow.

How do I know if my child qualifies for ECE through Te Kura?

To be eligible to enrol your student must be aged between 3-6 years old and be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or a domestic student who meets one of the eligibility criteria set out by the Ministry of Education. Use the enrolment eligibility wizard on Te Kura’s website to see if your child is eligible.